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Read more about the pups that are currently up for adoption. Read More… Foster Dogs FBRN is being faced with an increasing number of dogs who are ill, handicapped, or need expensive veterinary care before being placed. Meet our Foster Frenchies and please consider sponsoring one of them to ensure that they receive the care that they need. Read More… Surrender a Dog Life has thrown you a curve ball and you must surrender your French Bulldog… we are here to help! Read More… Volunteer We welcome you to join us in our efforts to rehabilitate and rehome needy French Bulldogs. We have many options for you to choose from, depending on your circumstances, time and resources. Our organization is composed solely of volunteers who nurture and foster these dogs as well as provide education and training. Our goal is to place healthy and happy French Bulldogs into forever homes. Read More… Contact Us Learn about the many ways that you can get in touch with us. He has a Staffie sister, Lettie, who he adores and who has taught him so much with her gentle patience. He has doggie friends at daycamp he sees once a week. He is the best snuggler ever! He used to be a resource guarder, but will now bring you his toys for a treat! He loves our daily walks and meeting people. Thank you FBRN for picking us to be his family- we love him so much! Despite being mostly blind and deaf, Ham is thriving in his golden years, especially with his folks now working from home. Thank you FBRN for our goodest good boy! We are so grateful for every day with him. She had cherry eye surgery in March right before Covid quarantine and the surgery was a success. A gigantic thank you to FBRN for allowing me to adopt this perfect little nugget. All Rights Reserved. A c 3 Non-Profit Organization. Tax ID: .Powered by Geeks4Rent. Bulldog Spotlight Gordon James I joined rescue because my family became overwhelmed with five kids and life, plain and simply. I decided I was ready to go because we were in an apartment and every day, it was getting smaller and smaller and smaller. My family loved me, but sometimes, love is not enough because I can hardly breathe. We are dedicated to saving and re-homing Bulldogs so they can have the healthy, happy lives they truly deserve. The group has been dedicated to the breed since , as a component of Lone Star Bulldog Club. Lone Star Bulldog Club Rescue accepts Bulldogs from owners who can no longer keep them, as well as retrieves Bulldogs from shelters and other undesirable situations. Each Bulldog in the program is lovingly cared for in a foster home until the perfect forever family for that specific dog is found. Every Bulldog is different: personality, temperament, energy, comfort with kids and other animals, medical needs and more. We take all these factors into consideration when making a forever-home match. Adoption is a coordinated process between the coordinators, fosters and applicant. We work together with our knowledge of the dog to find the best home. When you apply, you might have a particular dog in mind. But please understand, that dog may already be in the process of being adopted by an approved family who has been waiting weeks to be matched with the right dog. But they would prefer to be the only thing with fur in their home. They still make a wonderful companion and deserve a loving home. For your convenience, they have been designated as Forever Single on our website. If you plan on only having one dog, we hope you will consider one of these. Since most of our volunteers live in the North Texas area, it is easier on us and the applying family if they live in this area. Because of this, our out-of-state adoptions are incredibly rare and only in neighboring states. If you are ready to submit your adoption application, please complete the Adopt A Bulldog Application. A volunteer will then review your application. This process can take some time, and not every home is a suitable home for a Bulldog, so please be patient. You are not buying a dog. My name is Monty and I am famous! Yesterday, my photo was all over social media and friends were begging someone to save me. The shelter said I had to be out by …. Share A Story! French Bulldog Rescues In California A small commission may be earned on any purchases made via links on this page. Read our full affiliate disclosure. They are loving and do not require vigorous exercise, which is why they are considered one of the most popular AKC breeds. However, finding a french bulldog rescue in California to adopt from can be more difficult than it looks. At CharityPaws we never advocate buying from a breeder or puppy mill, but instead to adopt from a rescue. Adopting from french bulldog rescues in California can also be a rewarding experience. These rescues look for and save french bulldogs that have been abandoned or neglected by owners who can no longer handle the responsibility. Where to Find French Bulldogs Rescues In California As much as getting a french bulldog from a rescue is a good idea, starting your search might be confusing, especially if you do not know where to find these rescues. We have created a list of some of the best dog rescues in California where you can find some of these furry friends to adopt. Its mission is to save as many homeless French Bulldogs as possible. They search for, save and rehabilitate Frenchies. After rehabilitation, they place their dogs in suitable forever homes. They accept bulldogs from public shelters, high-kill rescues, and owners who can no longer handle the responsibility of owning a French Bulldog and wish to surrender. They have been rescuing and rehoming bulldogs for the past ten years, and in those ten years, they have placed more than 1, French Bulldogs in new forever homes. If you want to help them continue caring for this breed, you can support them through donations. To adopt a dog from this rescue, you need to apply through their website and reply to the acknowledgment email. A volunteer will screen applicants and push the approved applications to another volunteer who is charged with contacting you and scheduling a home visit. During the home visit, all family members and existing pets should be available during this visit. The volunteer also checks how secure your home is. The end goal is to see if your application will be approved. Once your application is approved, the rescue will contact fosters taking care of their dogs to see if there is one that matches your needs. This might take some time. They also host adoption events that allow approved families to meet the bulldogs. Browse our available pets below! Adoptions are completed in person on a first-come, first-served basis. Pets Being Rehomed Pardon our dust! Please read this important update so you know what to expect when visiting us: Adoptable animals at our San Diego Campus are currently housed at and Gaines St. All other San Diego Campus services including admissions, licensing, lost and found, and Community Pet Pantry will remain available at their usual locations. To adopt a pet: If you already know which pet s you'd like to meet or adopt, please check in at Gaines St. An Adoption Counselor will then meet with you on a first-come, first-served basis, introduce you to the pet s you're interested in and help complete your adoption. In the meantime, please feel free to browse our adoptable pets! You can also see all adoptable animals on our website prior to your visit. Visit our other campuses! Our El Cajon, Escondido and Oceanside campuses are not affected by this renovation project. Thank you for your patience and we hope to see you soon! Your adventure in pet ownership starts here! San Diego Humane Society has a variety of adoptable pets available including cats, dogs and small animals like rats, rabbits, hamsters, birds, reptiles and more. Alternatively, you may enter a specific animal name or animal identification number. For more about our adoption process, featured pets, discounts and rescue partners, please.

Intentional breeding likely started in the recent past, probably in the United States. For over years, these dogs have roamed the American West, rounding up livestock for farmers and ranchers. While the breed was refined in the Outback, this purebred got its actual start working the hills of Europe. Needless to say, the modern Aussie comes from a long line of herding champions! German Shepherd? More like canine bodyguard! Brave and powerful German Shepherd dogIn the 19th century, German officer Captain Max von Stephanitz sought to create a German herding dog like no other. Through careful crossbreeding, the modern German Shepherd Dog emerged. Shortened to GSD, these canines quickly proved capable of far more than herding. One even became a famous movie star named Rin Tin Tin. DRA does. Most have well-proportioned, athletic bodies. Set up high on their well-proportioned head are triangular ears with rounded tips. It could still range anywhere from upright and alert to floppy and folded. Their almond-shaped eyes have that observant and intelligent expression. Eye color varies from dog to dog. Most often, we see them with brown, blue, or hazel eyes. Your pooch might even inherit heterochromia from their Aussie side, a condition that gives them two different eye colors! Muzzles can be medium or long that slightly tapers and have a rounded tip. Your Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix is likely to have a fluffy, plumed tail that can be long or short, depending on which parent breed they take after. They sport a solid color, while others have a combination of black, tan, red, cream, golden, white, blue merle, or red merle. Some might even be tricolor or have tinges of silvery gray or brindle, with speckled or spotted markings. How big will a German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix get? Full-grown Aussie German Shepherds usually have a height of 19 to 26 inches tall 48 to 66 cm and weigh 45 to 80 pounds 20 to 36 kg , where males tend to be heavier than females. This is assuming that your pup has a standard-sized Australian Shepherd parent. If your pooch comes from a Toy or Miniature Australian Shepherd, they could be much smaller. Their energy is far too boundless for anything but a spacious home with a large yard. Farms and ranches would also make a great home for this mixed breed. Do Aussie German Shepherds make good house dogs? With this crossbreed, you get a skilled guard dog and family companion, all rolled into one. Because this pooch is quite aloof and a little wary of strangers, it makes them a reliable watchdog. Exposure to different people and situations is essential for this hybrid. To keep them engaged, include plenty of praise and tasty treats. You might even consider muzzle training your hybrid friend, especially if he joins your pack as an adolescent or adult. This might seem harsh, but muzzles can be an excellent tool for keeping your dog and other people safe. If this crossbreed is starting to sound a little intimidating, keep in mind that they are completely devoted to their families, and they love to play! Take a minute to watch this video of Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix puppies playing with their littermates and toys. Your kids will enjoy this hybrid, too. Both German Shepherds and Australian Shepherds are known for their patience and friendliness toward children. Think of their crossbreed offspring as a canine nanny of sorts. You should also exercise caution if you have other pets in the home—especially pets that look like food. Confident, experienced owners who can spend a good portion of each day bonding with and training this pup will undoubtedly reap the rewards. Well-trained German Aussie mixes are capable of some amazing feats. You should still consider providing mental enrichment at home by giving your German Aussie Shepherd mix puzzles, interactive toys, as well as clicker and obedience training. Owning an Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix Every dog needs some assistance when it comes to general care and maintenance. One of the first things you need to consider when raising your Aussie German Shepherd is that they have moderate tolerance to heat. Do Australian German Shepherd mixes shed? Their crossbreed offspring is considered a moderate shedder with average grooming needs. But like other double-coated canines, they shed profusely during their bi-annual blowout — spring and fall. We recommend using a slicker brush and a rake while moving in the same direction as the hair growth. Baths should only be given when necessary using a mild dog shampoo when washing your pet to avoid irritating her skin or drying out her fur. Ears that are upright can quickly accumulate dirt and dust. Cleaning can be done once a week with a damp cloth or an ear wipe. Not only do sharp talons take the fun out of playing with your dog, but long claws can splinter and break. Most pups can do with a pedicure once a month or so, but this varies from dog to dog. Exercise: how much activity does a German Aussie Shepherd need? Plan on a full two hours of daily exercise for this fireball of a canine. Ideally, this time will be split between strenuous activity and play, training, or casual walks. To keep them and yourself happy, think outside the proverbial box. Walks are great, sure, but have you ever seen a GSD Aussie mix dock dive? What about flyball? This is one clever pooch, so they can learn to do just about anything. And for them, learning is half the fun. Combining exercise with mental exertion is a fantastic way to wear out your pup. It also strengthens your bond. You can teach your fur buddy to catch flying discs with this Kong Frisbee, which is well-loved by active fidos. For a satisfied Aussie German Shepherd tummy, aim for 2. Divide this amount into two meals to discourage overeating, bloat, and keep your canine friend fueled. Being overweight can be a sign of illnesses like insulinoma and hypothyroidism. Are Australian German Shepherd dogs healthy? Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mixes are generally healthy dogs that could enjoy a lifespan of 9 to 15 years! But like any dog, owners will still need to watch out for some health problems. Joint issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia are possible in both German Shepherds and Australian Shepherds. A few other health issues to look out for are hemophilia, degenerative myelopathy, epilepsy, drug sensitivity like MPR , EPI , and cancer. How much are Australian German Shepherd puppies? Wondering if you can afford one of these remarkable dogs? You might find one for a lower price, but expect to pay somewhere in this range. Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix breeders Picking a breeder is just as important as picking out your puppy. To make matters worse, you could get your heart set on an unhealthy pup. Keep in mind that these documents should include more than a standard vet checkup. The best breeders care just as much about their puppies as their clients do. Furthermore, breeders should have an evident bond with their pups. If the adult dogs or puppies at a breeding facility seem detached or fearful, this is a huge red flag. You might be able to find one of these pups through a rescue. For starters, you can save quite a bit of money. You also have the option of bringing home an older dog and avoiding the more trying aspects of puppyhood hello, potty training. Perhaps the most joyful part of doggy rescue is providing a needy pooch with a loving, stable home. One or two other breeds may be thrown into the mix. Applies to all dog food recalls in the U. The German Shepherd mixed with Australian Shepherd dogs weighs from 46 to 65 pounds. Its parent breeds are notably medium to large-sized dogs. The height of this crossbreed could range from 20 to 23 inches. Its coat is remarkably dense. You should be wary about warm places due to the coat of this dog. The colors of their coat can come out as a combination of white, black, blue, red, cream, silver, and sable. The Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix makes a very energetic dog, suitable for owners and families with an active lifestyle. This dog also loves going outdoors and exploring nature. The German Shepherd crossed with Australian Shepherd dogs are intelligent dogs. They can be trained well to become service and therapy dogs. High intelligence causes less worry and more pride to the owners. The trainers would require less training time for this crossbreed. The mixed puppy has a clingy nature. Its affectionate nature may also contribute to a fearful state, often leading to separation anxiety. This condition may be averted by employing effective obedience training and socialization. Overall, this crossbreed is a dependable and wonderful companion. Australian Shepherd Crossed with German Shepherd Puppies for Sale Finding a breeder for a crossbreed tends to be more difficult than going into a pet store and purchasing a new pet. The quality of the crossbreed is drastically high when the dog is acquired through reliable breeders. One place where you can spot potential professional breeders is at a dog show. Certified breeders often attend this event. You can gauge the temperament and disposition of some dog breeds during the dog show as well. This event could help you decide better on what breed to get. There are designated and verified parent clubs that you can access and reach out to. These parent clubs provide support for breed-specific studies, along with the help of AKC. You can seek out public opinion regarding some breeders. There are breeders with website and comments. You will see disappointed owners or prospective buyers if the breeder has pending issues on the environment and health problems of the dogs. There is no accessible list of substantiated breeders for the Australian Shepherd German Shepherd Mix dogs at this time. These places are good grounds for acquiring your new family member. Following these steps will assure that your dog will be in top appearance throughout all the seasons. Brushing is an essential part of grooming this mixed breed. The German Shepherd Australian Shepherds shed heavily throughout the year. Brushing is beneficial in developing your bond with your dog as well as its aesthetic value. I recommend two to four times of brushing per week for this crossbreed. Another function of brushing the coat is providing proper insulation for the dog. Some owners prefer this step. This may or may not reduce the insulating property of the coat. There is a possibility that the coat will not grow as well as before it was shaved. While you are brushing its coat, you should also check for tick and flea infestations. You may also need a pair of thinning shears. You need to do minimal trimming of the feet, tail, ears, britches, and legs. With the use of a slicker brush, you will gently brush the hair from the toes toward the leg of the dog. You will cut the hair sticking above the foot and the lengthier hair surrounding the foot. You can use the shears to cut a vertical line at the end of the tail. You only need to cut the hair with excess length. Trimming this part involves following the natural curve of the coat. The special spot to notice is the coat on the ear. If you lack the basic grooming tools or enough time, there are dog wash salons that may also offer grooming services. You can also contact and find professional groomers to help you with the activity. The risk factors and genetic mutations in the parent breeds affect the disposition of the offspring. The Australian Shepherd parent breed is relatively healthier than the other dog breeds. It suffers less skin, coat, and bone problems. It manifests as spontaneous bleeding. Dogs could have internal bleeding in muscles or joints. Hip and elbow dysplasia: This malformation can spontaneously occur to the dog. It leads to joint inflammation at a young dog age. The cartilage in the hip socket is greatly affected in this disease. This degenerative disease ultimately ends in blindness. Epilepsy: It is a serious neurologic disorder that can be triggered by infections and injury. This may have structural or idiopathic causes. For German Shepherd crossed with Australian Shepherd dogs, this health issue has an idiopathic origin. Collie Eye Anomaly: This is a group of eye issues that may be minor to fatal. It may cause unilateral or bilateral disturbances. If you established enough rapport with the breeder, you can contact him more about the proper management of the dogs. Professional breeders will gladly inform you about the health hazards, genetic and non-genetics, and other things you need to watch for. They made the effort to subject the parent dogs and the offspring to screening tests. A regular appointment with a reliable veterinarian can help you a lot in maintaining the health of the German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix dogs. Australian Shepherd Crossed with German Shepherd Food Requirements You will need a great diet plan to sustain the energy of this agile crossbreed. This mixed pup could grow to a helpful working dog, so it is crucial to maintaining a steady and strong development. A healthy quantity of the dog depends on some variables. It is advisable to divide the food servings into two meals each day. Some essential minerals for the development of puppies are chloride and sodium. They affect the cardiac and skeletal muscles. They also contribute to the correct functioning of the nervous system. Below is a list of the recommended dry food for the Australian Shepherd crossed with German Shepherd dogs. These ingredients contribute to building strong muscles and giving energy to the dog. It is gluten-free. The formula has Omega-3 and Omega-6 for a shiny coat. It also includes minerals for the optimal function of the joints and strength of teeth and bones. Orijen Dog Food: This well-known formulation has a high content of protein, amounting to 75 to 80 percent. The recipe for this dog food is patterned on the diet of the wolf ancestors. Canidae Life Stages: This is quite a one-size-fits-all dog food. It can be suitable for dogs of all ages and kinds. It is equipped with antioxidants, fatty acids, and probiotics. It contains chicken, turkey, lamb, oatmeal, potatoes, brown rice, white rice, and cracked pearled barley. It can be digested easily. It has a healthy source of fat called flaxseed. It is important to know the benefits of this dry food, like its advantage to the brain and eye development. It has vitamins C and E that provide help to the immune system. This is a vet-approved formulation without any artificial flavors and colors. It has whole grain wheat, whole grain corn, whole grain oats, and whole grain corn. Giving proper nutrition does not end in providing the food. You need to monitor if the diet contributes to the good development of the dog. You can check for possible weight gain by touching his spine and ribs. There is a breed standard that the dogs need to achieve. If you are able to feel the ribs, the dog is less likely to be overweight. Owners should be cautious with the possibility of obesity because it may be a manifestation of a systemic disease like hypothyroidism, insulinoma. Your inquiries can be addressed by setting up an appointment with a veterinarian. The professional can also create a detailed diet plan for the dog. There are also some brands that you should keep off of their food bowls, such as the worst dry dog food. Dogs pass on the genes to their puppy pups, and thus they can develop a different taste for food, which is why you can try your luck with the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. If you own a puppy, scan through the best puppy food brands, and for gray-coated grandpa doggos, chose something from the best senior dry dog food list. All changes in nutrition should be made after discussing it with your vet. The crossbreed inherited the athletic nature of its parent breeds. The duration of vigorous physical activities should be at least one and a half hour. Different techniques to gain the attention and interest of the Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix puppies are required to avoid irritability and aggressiveness from manifesting. You can involve the dog in physical activities such as long walks, jogging, hiking, tug-of-war, and fetching. Tug-of-war may intimidate some new owners because it could lead to increased aggression. This has great benefits if done properly, such as teaching about rules and boundaries and bonding with your dog. For fetching activities, the Legendog Flying Disc Rubber Catcher is a great toy that can fly higher than the average flying discs. It has edge bulges to let the dogs bite firmly. It keeps the dog fairly occupied. It has no preservatives, salt, sugar, or plastic. You can give it to dogs of all ages. Australian Shepherd Crossed with German Shepherd Training The German Shepherd crossed with Australian Shepherd dogs has a high possibility of being hailed as service dogs, involved in search and rescue, and therapy dogs. These dogs are highly trainable and willing to learn. The owner has a role in supporting and keeping a level head during the training process. The emotions of the owners could confuse and distract the dogs. Choose particular tasks: You can heighten the productivity of the dog if you choose to train it with specific tasks. These tasks may involve fetching the newspaper or loading the dishwasher. Never hit your dog: This action will affect your bond with the dog. The dog could see you as a threat and attack you. It may develop antisocial personality traits. Basic commands: The breeding instinct of the Australian Shepherd may manifest in their offspring. Invest in obedience classes: Your dog will benefit greatly with knowing the basic commands through formal classes. You can have fewer frustrations as well because another person is responsible for the training. It is important to allow time for the dog to process the commands and avoid unnecessary pressure. Training will also contribute to better mental health for the dogs. If you are hesitant of the proper training techniques for your dog, you can refer to an experienced dog trainer. It is affectionate and loyal to its owners. An important factor in building a good family dynamics with the Australian Shepherd German Shepherds is making the dog feel that it can be part of the family, even if it is still new. You must do early socialization. This will contribute to their potential in becoming therapy dogs, service dogs, or herders. Aside from its benefit to family dynamics, socialization allows the dog to be friendly to your friends. They are also friendly to children. With the proper training and early socialization, you can be assured that these dogs will exhibit minimal herding behaviors with your little children and other animals. You need to be careful in dealing with boredom in these crossbreeds. They could manifest with destructive behaviors if left unattended for a long period of time. These behaviors may include excessive barking which may affect your relationship with your neighbors. Temperament: Work-oriented, people-pleasing, and intelligent. These differences among parent breeds mean that your mix will certainly be unique. They will typically be smaller than a standard German Shepherd but larger than a standard Australian Shepherd. Although both the parent breeds are herding dogs, there is still a lot of differences in their appearances. Height and Weight You can expect a fully grown Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix to weigh anywhere from pounds. Males tend to be at the heavier end of the scale, with females being at the lighter end. As for height, anywhere from inches tall. Colors and Coat We all know that German Shepherds are typically black and tan with a double coat. And Australian Shepherds come in a variety of different colors and mixes with a medium-length coat. This means that the Australian German Shepherd mix can come in many different colors and mixes of whites, blacks, tans, silvers, blues and greys. With both parent breeds having a medium-length double coat be prepared for grooming and shedding. These mixes will shed profusely twice a year during their bi-annual blowout. During this time you will need to brush the undercoat to remove the extra dead hair trapped. This will need to be done every day or so. This hybrid will excel at agility competitions. They can be wary of strangers which makes them amazing watchdogs. Do not be surprised if the Australian German shepherd tries to herd small kids. Australian Shepherd German Shepherd Mix Personality and Temperament One thing to keep in mind with this breed is that they need huge amounts of both mental and physical stimulation. Daily exercise will keep your German Shepherd Aussie mix happy and entertained, and prevent any destruction that can result from boredom. Their intelligence needs should be met by consistent training sessions to keep their mind sharp. Agility, herding, and tracking are a few sporting activities that this mix excels at. Whether or not you choose to compete in these events you should still consider some form of obedience training. They are hard workers and should be provided with enrichment to combat boredom. Because of their self-confidence and nearly unmatched intelligence, they excel in high-pressure jobs. They are amazing problem solvers and thus both the German Shepherd and Australian Shepherd can be used as police dogs or service dogs. Again as both their parent breeds were bred to herd flocks all day they have a very high energy level. Without consistent exercise, they will make their boredom and frustration known. A bored Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix will let you know by barking, chewing, and digging. Their high energy levels are almost as high as the affection they have for their family. This dog wants nothing more than to play with their family. They can be a little wary of strangers but are still an overall very confident dog. Their wariness of strangers makes them great guard dogs and you can expect some barking from them when strangers are near. However, this is not ideal for the sort of family who consistently has guests over and wants them to feel welcomed. The good thing is since the Australian German Shepherd mix is so easy to train this can easily be stopped by socializing them as a puppy. The Australian German Shepherd is a good family dog because of their loving nature. They enjoy human attention and would fit best in an active family — they are a breed that enjoys going on long walks or hikes with their owners. Caring for an Australian Shepherd German Shepherd Mix Remember these dogs require a great deal of physical and mental stimulation. This may be a mixed-breed dog but for the most part, they are still working dog. Be prepared for lots of exercise and mental stimulation. Also, their undercoat will need consistently raking out during shedding season. Training should begin early on so that they knows their boundaries — when properly trained they will make a great companion. Exercise Requirements This point can not be stressed enough — This crossbreed requires plenty of exercise and stimulating games. They are not ideal apartment dogs because of this and do best in a home that has a large yard or garden. A fun exercise that your Australian German Shepherd mix would enjoy is being in water. Both of their parent breeds are known for excelling at dock diving competitions so your mix should be no exception. They would appreciate a long walk each day and then some time to play in addition to this. They should be left off leash while in an enclosed backyard for playtime. Remember they do have prey driven instincts so while walking around the neighborhood it is important to keep them on leash. Grooming and Shedding Grooming and shedding are also important things to consider when getting an Australian German Shepherd mix. They will have a medium-length double coat that will require at least weekly brushing throughout the year. This mix will shed moderately all year long therefore if you suffer from pet allergies this will not be an ideal dog for you. Twice a year in the spring and fall they will shed their entire undercoat which will require daily brushing to avoid matting. At this time, you should expect to rake large clumps of undercoat from this dog. Their ears stand upright and naturally collect a lot of dust and dirt. This can lead to ear infections therefore it is crucial to clean their ears at least once a week as well. Bathing should be done as needed to avoid irritating the skin. Feeding and Diet When choosing what type of food to feed, you should look for a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age. Food that is low in carbs is also ideal. You should also consider the activity levels of your dog. Active dogs will need lots of protein to keep their muscles and body healthy. Some common health problems to watch out for are:. Origin Story of the Aussie German Shepherd Mix It might not be a shock to hear this about mixed breeds, but the origin story of the Australian Shepherd mixed with the German Shepherd is somewhat unclear. What is known about the German Shepherd Aussie is that the breed was developed sometime between the s and s. However, like other mix-breeds, the only way you can really decipher what this dog is all about is by understanding their purebred parents. Von Stephanitz did this by using a selection of the best shepherd breeds that were scattered around the German countryside. The German Shepherd dog also referred to as GSD has quickly proved to be capable of far more than just herding. Nowadays, these dogs are synonymous with police work, bomb and drug detection, and personal protection. While the breed was refined in the outback, this purebred got its actual start working the hills and countryside of Europe. In the last hundred years, the Aussie Shepherd transitioned to the Australian West, rounding up livestock for farmers and ranchers. They, too, are astute and will often try to outsmart their owners. So, be prepared to remain on your toes at all times. Australian Shepherd The Aussie Shepherd is an emotionally supportive dog but can, at times, be reserved and independent. At heart, the Australian Shepherd loves the company of its owners. Australian Shepherd and German Shepherd Mix Appearance Whenever you get a designer pup, you can never fully predict what physical traits the dog will adopt from either parent. These dogs are mostly well-proportioned with strong athletic bodies. Their sloping back and long legs give this half German Shepherd half Australian shepherd the ambling gait of a GSD with the pep-in-step of the Aussie. This hybrid will most likely have a fluffy, plumed tail that can be long or short. This will be dependent on which parent breed they take after. Their almond-shaped eyes are very expressive. With these dogs, their eyes are truly the windows to their soul. Eye colors vary from dog to dog. Typically, you can see them with brown, blue, or hazel eyes. In some cases, the German Shepherd Aussie can inherit Heterochromia , a condition that causes two different eye colors. Males tend to be at the heavier end of the scale. These dogs tend to sport a solid color, while a few might have a combination of colors. Some are even speckled or spotted dogs with a tricolor or tinges of silvery gray or brindle. It really depends on the parents and who has the dominant gene. Therefore, grooming these dogs can take a bit of time and concentrated effort. Grooming this hybrid requires plenty of brushing and trimming to keep their coats in top shape. Since their coats are primarily straight hairs, you can use a dog comb and a dematting brush at least twice each week. Baths should only be given when necessary using a mild dog shampoo. This will help to avoid irritating the dogs skin or drying out their fur. Doing so helps them avoid ear infections. And to finish off a full grooming program, keep their nails down with some quality dog nail clippers. If your dog gets enough exercise, it is less likely that they will need their nails clipped each month. If you run on asphalt or hike with them, their nails will naturally wear down. This designer mix, however, is a moderate shedder with half the grooming needs of their parents. This occurs in the Spring and Fall seasons when the dog will lose clumps of hair and shed much more than usual. During this time, it is best to take them to a groomer to effectively get rid of the shedding hair. Shaving is never the solution for dogs with a double coat. Shaving a double-coated dog can actually make it harder for them to cool off. This part of their personality is thanks to their German Shepherd heritage. However, both the German Shepherd and Australian Shepherd are amazing problem solvers and can work as police or service dogs. German Aussie puppies have a very high energy level, and without consistent exercise, they will make their boredom and frustration known. They will bark all night and day, chew on things and dig, dig, dig. Essentially, all this dog wants is to play with its family. They can be a little wary of strangers but are overall still very confident dogs. Their wariness of strangers makes them great guard dogs, though, so you can expect some barking from them when strangers approach. Are They a Good Family Dog? The German Shepherd and Aussie mix is a great addition to any family. They adore human attention and would fit best in an active family — they are a breed that enjoys going on long walks or hikes with their owners. This breed can get along with other pets. The most significant factor in their acceptance of other animals is their socialization when they are puppies. Both parent breeds are known for being quite relaxed as properly socialized dogs. They can even get along with cats and other small animals if introduced slowly and correctly. Well, it all boils down to the breeding business. Some breeders are well-established and have pedigree dogs in their kennels. Breeding is an expensive business, and very few breeders make any profit at all. To make matters worse, you could get your heart set on an unhealthy pup. These documents should include more than a standard vet checkup. The best breeders care just as much about their puppies as their clients do. When it comes to rescuing a German Shepherd Aussie mix, there are several benefits to adopting one. For starters, you can save quite a bit of money. You can also have the option of bringing home an older dog and avoid the highs and lows of potty training a whining puppy. One or two other breeds may be thrown into the mix. Take the time to observe if the breeders or rescue staff have an evident bond with their pups. If the adult dogs or puppies at one of these breeding or rescue facilities seem detached or fearful, this is a huge red flag. As both parent breeds were bred to be obedient working dogs, their cross also has that focus and obedience during training. With plenty of positive affirmations and repetition, you will have a wonderful, well-trained dog in no time. Exercise for German Shepherd and Australian Shepherd Mix As previously mentioned, this breed is highly energetic, so it needs plenty of exercise. The German Shepherd Aussie will need about 2 hours of activity spread throughout the day. But you will probably have to walk with them twice a day to fulfill their exercise quota for the week. Diet and Nutrition for the German Shepherd Aussie As an active breed, your German Shepherd Aussie mix needs a diet high in protein to keep its body and muscles strong and healthy. This is an estimated 1, calories a day. Divide this amount into two meals to discourage overeating and bloating. You should also check if your German Shepherd Aussie mix is gaining too much weight by doing a touch test. This is where you run your fingers through their coat and feel for their ribs. Being overweight can be a sign of illnesses like insulinoma a tumor of the pancreas and hypothyroidism an underactive thyroid condition. As for the Aussie Shepherd, this dog enjoys a life expectancy of between 12 and 15 years. It is suggested that the German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix could live for between 13 and 15 years, adopting its Aussie genetics. Sometimes, unsound breeding practices in their parents can contribute to a greater risk of hereditary conditions. Joint issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia are possible in German and Australian Shepherds. However, below are some potentially serious health conditions affecting the half Aussie half German Shepherd breed. Hemophilia An inherited condition that stops blood from clotting. Dogs with this condition can have prolonged, spontaneous bleeding from injuries or even from the nose and eyes. Epilepsy Seizures can be caused by trauma or sickness, but in many cases, the real reason is unknown. Luckily, this can be managed with lifelong medication. A visit to the vet may prescribe eye drops to reduce inflammation, but surgery to remove the cataract is the most effective treatment. It usually occurs after the dog has eaten or drank excessively, often just before or after exercise. The stomach starts to fill up with gas, then twists around on itself, cutting off the blood supply to the organs and rupturing the stomach lining. Without emergency surgery, the dog will not survive. Collie Eye Anomaly This is actually a group of eye problems affecting Collie-type breeds. They range from mild to potentially fatal, and some can cause blindness in one or both eyes. Your dog must be checked regularly for any sign of eye problems of this nature. Degenerative Myelopathy Degenerative myelopathy is a disease of the spinal cord that stops the brain from communicating with the hindquarters. It is a progressive disease that almost always results in complete paralysis of the back legs. In many cases, their front legs are weakened, and they become incontinent. The only good news here is that the dog is not in pain while experiencing this disease. They do, however, require a diligent owner. Novice pet parents or those with packed schedules should think twice before bringing one of these puppies home. The primary consideration you must make with these pups is their need for space and attention. As long as you make the effort, they will be an excellent addition to your home. These dogs are surprisingly becoming very famous among all breeds due to their energetic nature and lively conduct behavior. This breed of dogs is created in the Western US, not from Australia. It is acknowledged that the breed was formed during the gold rush in .Likely ancestors were usually bobtailed, long-haired, and collie-type dogs from Australia. This type of medium-sized dog originated at ranches, horse shows, many farms, and rodeos doing whatever was required to be completed: herding sheep, geese, ducks, and goats, turning up cattle, loading horses into the trailers and chutes, fetching, pulling, and carrying. The Aussie German Shepherd Mix breed of the United States of America was established back in and still is the main single breed registry. Today, German Shepherd Aussie Mix is among the top-rated category of dog breed and marks himself among them on 26th rank registered by the club. They need special care while breeding, not going through only the formality of keeping at home. So many reckless breeders just own this dog only to follow trends but do not take certain measures to ensure their welfare because of greediness. They just want to earn money by keeping them as an entertainer dogs. Though, the particular features of the Aussie German Shepherd Mix can differ from another breed of dog. This variety of physical appearance also depends on how considerable German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd genetics the pup will have. The ratio of the genes from the parent dogs will also be a spectacular sign of how they will look alike. The Aussie German Shepherd Mix will typically have a medium or large-sized body shape. This will not come as a wonder this breed of dog parents because they are also large-sized shaped bodies. Their bodies are very much strong and muscular, which is no more surprising because of the following genes of the shepherd. When Australian German Shepherd mixes are fully grown, they will weigh in between 45 to 80 lbs and reach a tall height of around 20 to 25 inches. Their size will remain constant with both the German Shepherd and Australian Shepherd. This mixed breed of dog can be guaranteed nearly to their exact look of the coat and color are in unique nature. Because the parents of the Australian German Shepherd have assorted coats and composing these 2 breeds will make the more diverse look and colorful a coat. They can have similar markings to their parents or sometimes can be different from them. The Aussie German Shepherd Mix is also put together with a lot of muscles and has a strong build, specifically their thigh and shoulder area. These muscles provide them with enough stamina and strength to stay vigorous and energetic as long as they want. Their ear is also triangle-shaped that stays active if there is some alert situation. Above all, you will find this type of dog exactly like an Australian Shepherd or German Shepherd if you know how they look alike. Size: Aussie German Shepherd Mix takes a bit slower to attain full adult size, generally taking 16 months. A big or medium-sized physique is typical of an Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix. That should come as no surprise, given that both of the parent canines are rather huge although males tend to be heavier than females Male Australian German Shepherds achieve a mature weight of pounds when completely grown while females achieve a mature weight of around pounds. Coat Length: Their fur is normally quite long and silky, with a thick weighty undercoat that is usually two inches or longer. Some have a short outer coat with longer hair fringes around their face and tail, while others have a longer outer coat with longer hair fringes around the face and tail. Special Traits: Aussie German Shepherd Mix dogs may even inherit heterochromia, a disorder that causes them to have two distinct eye hues, from their Aussie ancestors, and some would possibly even be tricolor or have tinges of silvery grey or brindle, with patterned or noticed markings. Also, a distinctive attribute of this breed coat is that since the Australian Shepherd typically contains a mane or tuff of fur around its neck, the Australian German Shepherd mix can as well. They can be cautious of strangers, which makes them wonderful watchdogs. And do not be shocked if the Aussie German Shepherd Mix tries to herd little kids. Grooming Your Aussie German Shepherd Mix: Considering both the Aussie Shepherd and the GSD have two layers of thick coats, it is not surprising that these German and Australian mixes have a lot of hair that needs regular care and grooming. Therefore, it is necessary to take out some time to care for and brush long fur to avoid tangling. Their fur coat is short to medium in length and can be straight or wavy. Keep in mind that these dogs are shed quite badly about twice a year. If necessary, have a vacuum cleaner and an air purifier in case the temperature rises in the spring and falls in the fall. Appropriate grooming, such as brushing, bathing, and trimming, can be used to minimize hair loss. Be careful not to over wash the fur of the German Shepherd and Australian Shepherd with a thick coat. Vigorous washing of the skin can cause natural oils to come off the skin, causing itching, scratches, or licking. When I take a bath once in a while, the fur is soft and shiny. This dog is known as the thinking dog who thinks and makes decisions on his own. He always wants to be a part of everything that is going around them and looking for an active life routine to stay happy. He is also immensely consistent. Aussie German Shepherd Mix would like things to happen at a similar period every single day whether it is their bedtime, meal, or walk time. If you want him to change on anything then your dog will have to get off from first to accept the next. Aussie German Shepherd Mix always loves to spend an adequate amount of time training them so they can acquire things to do that should keep them occupied. They would love doing certain tasks like if you teach the dog to bring the paper, they will follow the instructions and if you ask them to put the dirty clothes into the laundry basket, they would love to do that, or even they would be helping you in pulling the cart in the garden. And when he is done with these chores, they would love to go outside with you on a bike or even for a walk. Like many other herding dogs, the Aussie German Shepherd Mix has inherited another trait from his parents and that is a protective streak and can be cautious of any stranger around them. They would require socialization at an early age else they can become aggressive and shy at times in a group of unknown people. They are known to be the smartest dogs in the world, and also have the unique features that they are very vigilant and in case of any danger or some ordinary situation, they will alert you! This specific characteristic will be more beneficial in professions like the police or similar area of work. Adding more to the loyal personalities of the Aussie German Shepherd Mix, they are very friendly in nature and social dogs. They love to be around people and receive affection, they are also very famous in the herding dog category mentioning that they can be extraordinarily protective at times and you will not have any regret even if you own this mixed breed of dogs. That will not indicate the canine will have such complications; it impartial implies that they are more at a chance than other dogs. It is going to depict the foremost common issues seen in Australian Shepherds to allow you a thought of what may come up in their future. Crossing these breeds tends to enhance their health rather than detract from it. The German Shepherd in particular suffers from many bones and joint concerns, like hip dysplasia, because of their sloping back. There are still a few things that you want to watch out for, though. Dogs with DM may display dynamic shortcomings and need for coordination within the rear limbs leading eventually to loss of motion. Euthanasia is required once the illness starts to affect breathing. Nodular dermatofibrosis It is a rare paraneoplastic condition of manifold collagenous nerves related with uterine and renal tumours. Deafness The cause of deafness in Aussies could be a lack of melanocytes color cells within the internal ear. These cells help interpret air vibrations caused by the sound into electrical impulses that travel to the brain. In the event that the cells are missing, the puppy will be deaf. Idiopathic epilepsy It is the most mutual source of seizures in the dog, which is also an inherited disorder, but the cause is exactly unknown. Perianal fistula These are tunnel-like developments caused in the skin and to the deeper tissues which can be surrounded in the anal area of dogs Renal cystadenocarcinoma This is an inherited cancer in GSDs. This has a late onset and is progressive. Pretentious animals grow multiple firm nodules dermatofibrosis in the skin of the dog which is typically by the year of age 6. Serious Conditions: Hip dysplasia This serious disease is quite a painful condition that can cause one or both hip junctions to grow peculiarly when a puppy is growing. It also originates from pain, then swelling, and eventually results in arthritis. Hemophiliac It is an inherited ailment relating to a deficit of the clotting activity in blood. Hemophiliac pups could suffer from impulsive and protracted bleeding from innumerable areas. Aussie German Shepherd Mix Training: The Australian German Shepherd mix is fairly enough and very easy to train along with their superb level of intelligence. They are quick learners and easy to learn how to pick up on new behaviors and also new tricks if you make them learn so. Because of their direct and bold personalities, sometimes they would need a strong companion and front lead in the house to make sure they know that they do not supervise the others. This is frequently done through behavioral exercises and proper training. It would be great if you inculcated in their fresh mind that you will be the front lead of the team rather than being among them. This will be beneficial for you and they will listen to you more enthusiastically and always look towards your approval and directions. When training this specific breed of dogs, always make sure to admire them or appreciate them for showing nice behaviors by giving them treats, some rewards, or even dog toys. Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix show immediate response and positive attitude when they receive these types of rewards because they are known as food motivated breeds of dog. By giving humble commands to your dog, you can benefit them to become a friend and a personable dog who is always ready for any kind of occasion. Always make sure to socialize your dog with other dogs, especially when they are whelp so it will be easier for them to become familiar with any other different environments. This is an important requirement to consider as you determine whether your environment is suitable for an Aussie German shepherd mix. For example, if you live in a small apartment without much access to large spaces to run and roam, your puppy may have a more difficult time meeting its need for physical activity. Their desire for activity also is demonstrated in their skill and agility in running, jumping, and chasing. It can be fun to train your dog through an obstacle course or time them on runs. They are quick to run and can follow a target easily. Life Expectancy: Aussies are best suited for families with a dynamic way of life and a huge fenced yard. They require a bounty of work out and mental incitement to anticipate boredom. They can weigh between 35 and 70 pounds and have a normal life span of years. The size, age, metabolism, weight, and the intensity of commotion of the puppy are all factors to consider. The number of high-quality dog food required for an adult GSD spanned with an Australian Shepherd could consist from 2 and a half cups to 3 and a half cups. Chloride and sodium are two important elements for puppy development. They have an impact on the skeletal muscles and cardiac. Dry food is typically preferred since it is more effective at cleaning and protecting the crossbreed gums and teeth. The following is a list of dry foods that are endorsed for the Aussie German shepherd mix. The ingredients in this dog food help the dog build strong muscles and provide energy. For a shiny coat, the formula contains Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids. Which also contains minerals that strengthen the joint function and the strength of teeth and bones. It is appropriate for dogs of all age groups and breeds. It contains fatty acids, probiotics, and antioxidants. It is simply edible. It contains flaxseed, which is an upright source of fat. It is also vital to know the benefits of this dry food, such as its advantages for eyes and brain development. It contains vitamins C and E, which assist the immune system. This is a veterinarian-approved formula that contains no flavorings or colors. It contains whole grain wheat. Whole grain wheat, whole grain corn, whole grain oats, and whole-grain corn are all included. The provision of proper nutrition does not end with the provision of food. By touching his spine and ribs, you can detect any potential weight gain. There is a breed standard that the dogs must meet. If you can feel the ribs, the dog is less likely to be obese. Owners should be extremely careful about the possibility of obesity because it could be a symptom of a systemic disease including hypothyroidism as well as insulinoma. You can get answers to your questions by making an appointment with a veterinarian. A detailed diet plan for the dog can also be proposed by the specialist. If you have a puppy, look at the best puppy food brands, and for gray-coated grandpas, look at the best senior dry dog food list. All dietary changes can be implemented after consulting with the Vet doctor. They gained popularity from rodeos. Native Americans considered them sacred. They often have two different colored eyes. Many have naturally short tails. Aussies are serious shedders. One Aussie was a Frisbee champion. Pros: Australian shepherds are considered to be a perfect breed of dog for people who would like to have an athletic training partner to be with them. They are also known as a kind of inordinate watchdog and also a very smart crossbreed if we compare them with other breeds. Australian German Shepherd excels in obedience and agility and loves to follow the directions and commands given by the owner of the dog. They are the smartest, most intelligent, and fast learners when it comes to learning something new, especially related to physical activities. Cons: Australian German Shepherds have this trait of staying reserved if they find strangers around themselves. They would immediately react and make noise and tell you with their body language that they are not comfortable around them. Aussie German shepherd mix is not suitable for the one who lives in apartments or in any small space, they would need a separate small space for them too to keep them physically active and roam around freely in their particular space area. Conclusion On Aussie German Shepherd Mix: Aussie German shepherd mix would make an extraordinary dog breed for families, singles, and working. The main consideration which you have to make for these pups will be their need for proper space. They will never have a contented life if they spend much of their time staying indoors and will not go anywhere outside. They will be happier dogs if you will take them out for a walk, for any entertainment purpose as long as you will give them plenty of time. They will be considered the most suitable and excellent choice of accommodating to your home. Aussie German shepherd mix makes excellent family dogs, dogs for singles, or working dogs. The primary consideration that you need to make with these pups is their need for space. They will not live a happy life if they spend most of it cooped up without anywhere to go. As long as you have plenty of time and space for them, they will be an excellent addition to your home. There is much more to love about this furry, loveable, calm, energetic also a loyal Aussie German shepherd mix because when two breeds combine together you eventually get a very beautiful dog who can keep you on your feet and also keep you aware of the surroundings. FAQs 1. Are Aussie German Shepherd Mix high maintenance? The Aussie German Shepherd Mix has both boundless energy and a high intelligence level. It takes a lot of energy and creativity to keep this dog happy and occupied — which makes for a high-maintenance pup! Do Australian Shepherds like to cuddle? Why is Aussie German Shepherd Mix so needy? Aussie German Shepherd Mix can be very clingy. They crave human companionship and love being included in pretty much everything you do, including being involved in all family activities. Since they require an active lifestyle, they will want to join in everything and anything that is going on around them 4. Should I get a German shepherd or an Australian Shepherd? The Aussie also requires a huge amount of exercise and activity 5. Why does Aussie have no tail? The naturally bobbed tail is a recessive gene within the Australian Shepherd dog breed genetic code. This genetic mutation curbs the tail, naturally creating a shortened tail that is only about one or two vertebrae in length. Two copies of a normal tail gene will produce a genetically normal tail in the pup.

French bulldog puppies Annapolis Valley I have 2 girls and 1 boy available. Please Contact American bulldog puppies Halifax Puppies come with their first set of vaccines, several deworming's, and vet record. Parents on site. Puppies are well socialized in home with people, children and other animals. The gas-injected glass-filled polypropylene seat back and chair legs are both rustproof and UV protected. Award-winning and ergonomically designed for comfort lumbar support and tested up to lbs. Color; Fawn. Growing up in house, playing with kids. Health checked, Chipped, dewormed, vaccinated. Puppies come dewormed, microchipped, vaccinated up to.We've been breeding this cross for 8 years and they absolutely give you.They will be dewormed, vaccinated and microchipped, and sent home with a small bag of food and their favorite.For more pictures of the colors just message. They are all good to go. Willing to negotiate price. They come with vet papers. Natural colours. Exotic woods used for colour. Available for order. Well socialized with cats,dogs and children. Serious inquiries only. Showing 1 - 20 of 20 resultsPage 1 - 20 results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. Color; Fawn. Growing up in house, playing with kids. Health checked, Chipped, dewormed, vaccinated. French bulldog puppies Annapolis Valley I have 2 girls and 1 boy available. This is my 3rd litter of this mix, same Dad. I own both parents , both have great temperaments.Lilac female and a fawn male. Pups have been vet checked and vaccinated to date. I own both parents , both have great temperaments and are great with kids. Parents are BBOA.Come with health certificate and puppy starter pack 2 puppies left. Male .Dartmouth Hello everyone, we had a beautiful litter yesterday!! The last 2 pictures are of mom and dad, both ckc registered, dewormed, health checked.Please Contact American bulldog puppies Halifax Puppies come with their first set of vaccines, several deworming's, and vet record. Parents on site. Puppies are well socialized in home with people, children and other animals. Puppies come dewormed, microchipped, vaccinated up to.We've been breeding this cross for 8 years and they absolutely give you.They will be dewormed, vaccinated and microchipped, and sent home with a small bag of food and their favorite.For more pictures of the colors just message. They are all good to go. Willing to negotiate price. They come with vet papers. Well socialized with cats,dogs and children. Serious inquiries only. Call or text for more info! Some search tips we've found useful: Try a different or more general keyword Expand search location.

With some simple knowledge and proactive care, you can help your Frenchie stay healthy and happy. What Is a French Bulldog? A French Bulldog, commonly referred to as a Frenchie, is a small breed of Bulldog that originated in France. This breed is typically stocky and muscular, with a distinctive bat-like look. They have a short coat that can come in a variety of colors, usually tan, cream, gray, or brindle. French Bulldogs have a friendly and personable disposition, making them an ideal companion for families. Frenchie owners should be aware of the potential for hair loss due to allergies, parasites, and endocrine diseases. Regular visits to the veterinarian for check-ups and vaccinations are essential for ensuring that your Frenchie stays healthy and free of any issues. Parasites, and endocrine diseases are some of the most common culprits. Allergies can be caused by environmental irritants, like pollen or household cleaners, or by certain foods. Like mites or fleas, can cause irritation leading to hair loss. Endocrine diseases are caused by a disruption of hormones in the body, leading to hair loss. There are steps you can take to prevent hair loss in your Frenchie. Make sure to keep them away from allergens, keep them up-to-date on flea and tick treatments, and have your veterinarian regularly check for any signs of endocrine disease. You should also keep an eye out for any signs of irritation or itchiness, as these can be telltale signs of a potential problem. Catching hair loss early can help prevent it from becoming a bigger issue. Allergies Allergies are a common cause of hair loss in French Bulldogs. Dogs can be allergic to food ingredients, inhaled allergens, and even contact allergens. If your Frenchie has an allergic reaction, they can experience skin irritation, hair loss, and excessive scratching. To tell if they have an allergy, look out for symptoms such as red and inflamed skin, excessive scratching and biting, and bald patches in the fur. If your Frenchie has any of these symptoms, it would be a good idea to take them to the vet to find out the cause and get the right treatment. Try to keep your pup away from any potential allergens such as dust, pollen, and smoke. You should also make sure that your Frenchie is on a healthy diet as this can help prevent allergies. This can involve changing their diet, using topical treatments, or taking medication. French Bulldogs can suffer from a wide range of allergies that can cause hair loss. Common environmental allergies that can cause hair loss in French Bulldogs include dust mites, mold, and pollen. Food allergies, such as wheat and corn, can also cause hair loss in French Bulldogs. You can tell if your Frenchie has an allergy if you notice that he or she scratches excessively or is losing patches or clumps of hair. A vet can test your Frenchie for specific allergies. Parasites can also cause hair loss in French Bulldogs. Common parasites include fleas and ticks, which feed off of the blood of your Frenchie. An infestation of fleas and ticks can cause your Frenchie to lose patches of hair. If you find any, take your Frenchie to the vet to be checked. Endocrine diseases such as hypothyroidism can also cause hair loss in French Bulldogs. If your Frenchie has an endocrine disease, they may lose patches of hair, have dry and flaky skin, or have an abnormally slow heartbeat. A blood test can determine if your Frenchie has an endocrine disease. If your Frenchie is diagnosed with one, they may need to take medication or supplements to control the symptoms. Look out for common signs of allergies in your Frenchie, such as persistent scratching, redness, dry and itchy skin, hair loss, and hives. Pay attention to any changes in their behavior, attitude, and appetite. If your Frenchie seems uncomfortable, off its food, or is avoiding certain places or objects, they may have an allergy. Keep an eye out for changes in their environment or diet, as these could be causing an allergic reaction. If you see any of these signs, you should visit your vet to get your pooch checked out as soon as possible. Parasites Parasites are one of the most common causes of hair loss in French Bulldogs. Ticks, and mites are the most common parasites that can cause hair loss in your Frenchie. The best way to tell if your dog has parasites is to inspect their coat for any signs of flea dirt or bites, as well as to check for any unusual skin irritation or scratching. You should also keep your Frenchie up to date on their flea and tick preventative treatments, as well as perform regular checkups with a veterinarian. If you think that your Frenchie might have parasites, the best thing to do is to take them to the veterinarian for a diagnosis. Your vet will be able to determine if your dog has any parasites, as well as what type of parasite they might have. They may also recommend certain treatments, such as flea and tick preventatives or other medications, to help get rid of the parasites. Regularly inspect their coat, keep them up to date on parasite preventatives, and take them to the vet if you suspect they have parasites. These steps can help ensure that your Frenchie stays healthy and happy, and that their hair loss is kept to a minimum. Parasites such as fleas, ticks, and mites can cause your French Bulldog to experience hair loss. While fleas are the most common, ticks and mites can also be a culprit. When fleas bite your Frenchie, it can cause them to scratch and pull out their hair. If you notice your Frenchie scratching more than normal and see bumps or red patches on their skins, they may have a parasite. To check for parasites, you should inspect your dog, paying close attention to the skin around their neck, head, ears, and back. You should also feel for any bumps or irregular patches of fur. If you find any signs of parasites, you should take your Frenchie to the vet as soon as possible. See also Can Bulldogs Climb Stairs? And How to Train to Climb! The vet may recommend a medication or shampoo to help get rid of the parasites and prevent further hair loss. Taking preventive measures can also help to keep your French Bulldog healthy and free of parasites. Ensuring your dog gets adequate exercise and a balanced diet can go a long way in keeping them healthy and free of parasites. The most common way to determine if your French Bulldog has parasites is to take it to the vet for a physical examination. During the examination, the vet will look for signs of parasites, such as fleas, ticks, and mites. They may also draw blood to test for worms or other parasites. If your Frenchie has parasites, the vet will usually prescribe medication to treat them. If you notice bald spots, scabs or dry patches, or if your Frenchie has excessive scratching or licking of their skin, these can all be signs of parasites. If you think your Frenchie has parasites, you should take them to the vet right away. If any parasites are found, the vet will be able to recommend the appropriate treatment for your Frenchie. Endocrine Diseases Endocrine diseases can cause hair loss in French Bulldogs, just like allergies and parasites can. Look out for excessive drinking, frequent urination, weight loss, poor coat condition, and thinning hair. Any of these signs should be reported to your vet immediately. Both of these diseases can cause hair loss in French Bulldogs, though there are other issues that could also be at play. Keeping your pup groomed regularly and bathed frequently with a hypoallergenic shampoo can help keep allergies and parasites at bay. If you suspect your Frenchie might have an allergy or parasite, take them to the vet right away to get the right treatment and help prevent further hair loss. Endocrine diseases can cause significant hair loss in French Bulldogs. To tell if your Frenchie has an endocrine disease, look for physical symptoms such as dry and flaky skin, thinning fur, and excessive shedding. Other common symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, and heat intolerance. Take your pup to the vet for regular checkups and blood tests. Blood tests can tell you if your Frenchie has an endocrine disorder. This is enough to prevent endocrine diseases and hair loss. Avoid exposing your Frenchie to environmental factors or toxins that can trigger allergies or skin problems. You should look out for symptoms such as weight loss, excessive urination and thirst, skin changes, and changes in behavior. With proper care and attention, you can help ensure your Frenchie stays healthy and happy. Prevention Prevention is key when it comes to keeping your French Bulldog healthy and happy. One way you can reduce the risk of hair loss in your Frenchie is to stay on top of flea and tick prevention. Regularly check your pup for any signs of parasites and, if necessary, consult your vet for the best treatment option. Keep an eye out for any allergies your French Bulldog may develop. If you notice any signs of hair loss, it could be due to an allergic reaction. In this case, your vet may recommend an antihistamine to help alleviate the symptoms. With regular vet visits and a careful eye, you can help prevent hair loss in your French Bulldog! Preventing hair loss in your French Bulldog is an important part of responsible pet ownership. You can take steps to reduce the risk of your Frenchie developing this issue. Regularly check your pet for any signs of parasites or other conditions that could cause hair loss. If you find any, take your pet to the vet right away so they can be treated. Be sure to feed your Frenchie a healthy diet that includes essential vitamins and nutrients. This will help keep their coat and skin in optimal condition. Keep your Frenchie away from any substances that may cause allergies. Taking these preventative measures can go a long way in helping to prevent hair loss in your French Bulldog. Conclusion Preventing hair loss in your French Bulldog is fairly simple if you stay on top of it. Parasites, and endocrine diseases are all possible culprits. If you suspect your Frenchie has an allergy, talk to your vet to get an allergy test or skin patch test. To tackle parasites, work with your vet to determine the best medication. Beyond that, there are a few things you can do at home. Make sure to feed your Frenchie a balanced diet to ensure their fur is getting the proper nutrients. Post Views: .Scaled skin Hair loss Your vet should have no trouble diagnosing mange since the symptoms are obvious. The good news is, the condition can be treated. Your Frenchie will receive oral antibiotics, a topical cream, and a special shampoo — and get better real soon. This area is easily irritated and prone to bleeding. However, you must address the behavioral and psychological causes of this condition, too. It can be over-production or under-production of a particular hormone, such as estrogen, testosterone, or thyroxin. In such cases, a dog can have dull, thinning hair or an unusual smell or color of the skin. These infections can be: Parasitic Fungal These infections are often caused by an immune system disorder. The most common infection in dogs is called folliculitis. The treatment should address the underlying causes as well as relieve the symptoms. The latter is generally achieved through the application of topical creams and antimicrobial shampoos. Being highly contagious, ringworm is a common occurrence, as well. Dogs commonly pick the ringworm up while digging in the dirt — especially if they already have a minor injury on their paws or head. The condition is treated with an anti-fungal shampoo and topical medications. It usually takes a couple of weeks. Important Note About Hair Loss Treatment If you think your French Bulldog might have any of the listed conditions, visit a vet for a proper diagnosis and timely treatment. Do not try to treat any medical conditions on your own! Once you get the correct treatment course from a licensed vet, be sure to follow through with it. If left untreated, some of these conditions could even be fatal. Final words Frenchies have a short, fine coat that they shed a couple of times a year. Regular grooming and brushing can help, though. Luckily, this is regular seasonal hair loss — and thus, no cause for concern. As for problematic, out-of-the-ordinary hair loss, you must address it as soon as possible. If you notice any patches and bald spots in isolated areas, take your dog to the vet immediately. The sooner you start treatment, the less room there is for complications. When not writing, he enjoys hiking and time in nature with his pets. Flea 2. Physiologically, a major contributor is excessive licking. Frenchie tends to resort to this when they are bored, stressed or anxious. When you allow your Frenchie to engage in this, the enzymes from the saliva they release can cause an irritation, which gives rise to a localized dermatitis and may become generalized over time. While a human being who is allergic may exhibit such symptoms as watering of the eyes, a runny nose or even itchy skin, Frenchies that are allergic show signs on their skin and ears. Basically, by excessive scratching due to the itchy skin or chewing of the hair in an effort to relieve themselves. Watch out for the following things that your Frenchie can be allergic to: i. Foods ii. Inhaled Allergens iii. Other materials One of the most common allergies in dogs, not particular to Frenchies is Flea allergy. So, check to see that your French bulldog is free of this. There are different species of mites what cause mange to Frenchie; it is the Demodex species which cause the Demodectic mange, or the Sarcoptes species which cause the Sarcoptic mange. Demodectic mange is usually localized on one spot of an infected Frenchie while the Sarcoptic mange is much more general on the body of the infected dog, it is also contagious to humans, unlike the demodectic mange. If these hormones get to a certain level, high or low, either by over-production or by under-production, it is considered to be abnormal and therefore can cause hair loss in French Bulldogs. One of the most common hormonal problems that can cause hair loss in French Bulldogs is called Hypothyroidism, which occurs when the canine thyroid gland is not functioning properly and thus produces hormones below the normal level. This hormonal problem can rapidly increase the rate of hair loss and cause the hair to become brittle and dry. For example, dogs with inflammatory bowel disease, cancer, or who are undergoing regular chemotherapy, often have dull and thinning hair. Frenchie that have kidney failure can be observed to have unkempt, dull coats and may have a musty smell coming from their skin. For dogs with liver failure, they may have orange-yellow skin and nails that grow but are flaky and brittle. These are some common causes of Hair Loss for French Bulldog. Do you know more and you'll like to add to advance this knowledge? Please, leave us a comment below. Thanks for reading. But just like any other furry friend, they also shed. Dogs normally shed hair to get rid of extra or damaged hair and to cool down during the summer months. However, if you notice that your Frenchie is shedding more hair than usual, they might be suffering from a skin condition. Is it normal for a French Bulldog to lose hair? As I mentioned in the intro, hair loss is a common process for all dog breeds as they shed. Why is my French Bulldog losing hair? There are several different reasons as to why a French Bulldog loses hair. Here are the primary ones: Food irritants — know what you are feeding your dog all the time and avoid foods that may cause allergies. Environmental irritants — pollens and other airborne irritants can cause skin conditions for Frenchies. Hot spot or acute moist dermatitis — a condition that is common to all canines but especially Frenchies who develop moisture in their skin folds. Chronic dry skin — caused by too much bathing. Dandruff — hair dandruff caused by allergens inside your house. Skin allergies due to food and environmental irritants are the most common reasons why French Bulldogs lose hair. You will know if your Frenchie is having an allergy issue if they start licking or chewing their paws constantly, rubbing their face for no reason on the ground, or scratching non-stop at their ears Because of the folds in their skin especially on the lower jaw, French Bulldogs also develop lip-fold pyoderma, a bacteria, and yeast infection due to the constant moistness in the folded area. A severe lip-fold pyoderma can cause their skin to redden and it can spread and lead to hair loss. To reduce the chance of hair loss on your French Bulldog, give your furry friend these three things — routine care , good diet , and enough exercise. Routine care — Treat your Frenchie like your own child. Be sure to brush their hair regularly, check their wrinkles for moisture or yeast infections, and keep them away from typical food or environmental irritants as much as possible. Good diet — Feed your French Bulldog a lean diet which is free from typical food irritants that cause allergies. If they are acting strange and scratching their skin constantly, check with your veterinarian. Wrapping up There is no need to wait for your dog to start having hot spots and dry patches before visiting a veterinarian. If you think your French Bulldog is shedding more hair than usual and has been vigorously scratching, start checking for possible causes. If you are not feeding it anything out of the ordinary, check the environment your pup is playing in. Pin 0 Shares All breeds of dog shed their hair, and even short-haired breeds like Frenchies can shed a lot, more so depending on the time of year. I put these notes together for you to act as a primer before you talk to the vet — which of course, you should do any time you notice hair loss patches and unusual bald spots on your Frenchie. I will explain in as a helpful a way as possible all I know about French Bulldog hair loss and what I have learned about Frenchie alopecia. Why is my French Bulldog losing so much hair? Once you rule that out, you can then explore the possibility of bald spots and alopecia due to entirely different reasons. You can see what it looks like in a video on our French Bulldog YouTube channel. Why Frenchies lose their hair by shedding Frenchies will lose their undercoat hair about twice a year; replacing their thinner or thicker coats for summer or wintertime. However, if your Frenchie is losing more hair than is normal, then it could be a sign of a skin condition , allergies or another medical condition. The bottom line is, you should always talk to your vet for a professional opinion, but there are some tell-tale signs that your Frenchie is losing hair for a different reason. It could be that you see bald patches and bald spots that were not there before? But why is your French Bulldog losing so much hair? Is there anything wrong? And is there anything you can do about it? There are many reasons your French Bulldog could be suffering from hair loss, all of which a vet would check for during an appointment. These include: 1. Allergies Like humans, Frenchies can also suffer from a range of allergies to different materials, environmental factors, or food. This can lead to skin irritations, causing them to scratch , bite and chewing on their fur, leading to hair loss. Common allergies include plastic and latex materials, dyeing agents, cleaning products, plants, antibiotics or certain ingredients in types of dog food. Acute moist dermatitis is often caused by moisture and dampness in folds of skin, especially around the neck area. You might see your French Bulldog losing hair on sides of the mouth and neck area bald spots. Mange Mange can be a scary word for many Frenchie owners, conjuring images or scabbed and furless dogs, but it is actually quite a common condition, being highly contagious between dogs. Sarcoptic mange or canine scabies is the most common of the two and is highly contagious. It causes intense itching and, as a result of scratching, dogs suffer open sores, scabs and hair loss. The good news is, that mange is easily treated using oral antibiotics and topical creams and shampoos. Your vet will be able to diagnose mange within seconds of seeing your Frenchie, hair loss being one of the obvious signs. Stress related hair loss When a dog is anxious, restless or just bored, they can find a release of some of that excess energy through licking themselves and things around them. Handy Hint: Often Frenchies will create bald patches due to licking when stressed with separation anxiety. Often found on the lower parts of their legs, it results in a red patch of furless skin, which can often become irritated or even begin to bleed. If you see French Bulldog alopecia on their flanks, this is what the hair loss could be. The dermatitis and infection can be treated with antibiotics, anti-lick strips and topical medicines, whilst the behavioral and psychological cause can be helped through training, more interaction with the animal and longer walks to relieve their excess energy. Hormones Just like humans, Frenchies can suffer from hormonal imbalances, such as the over-production or under-production of oestrogen, testosterone, thyroxin or other hormones, which can cause hair loss among other symptoms. One of the most common causes, however, is hypothyroidism, caused through a malfunction in the canine thyroid gland; this can be treated with an oral hormone replacement medication, such as thyroxine. Hormonal imbalances can result in hair loss patches and bald spots on areas such as the back, tail, around the mouth, sides of the body, and around the eyes. Abnormal organ functions While it is rarer, other things that causes hair loss in French Bulldogs can be problems with their internal organs, such as kidneys, liver, and intestines. Health issues like bowel disease, kidney failure, and liver failure can cause dull, thinning hair liver failure also causing orange-yellow skin, and kidney failure is accompanied by a musty smell to their coats. Bacterial infection French Bulldogs can also lose their hair due to parasitic infections like as ringworm, or bacterial and fungal infections like folliculitis. Sometimes caused by previously mentioned forms of dermatitis and immune system disorders, folliculitis shows itself through a collection of red swellings around the hair follicles but can be treated with topical creams and antimicrobial shampoos as well as treatment to any underlying cause. Ringworm appears in lesions on the head, ears, and paws of a dog, and if often picked up when your dog is digging around in the dirt where the fungus resides. Ringworm is easily tested for and can be treated with an anti-fungal shampoo and topical medication over the course of a couple of weeks. If you are concerned that your dog may have any of the above conditions or are just worried about possible causes of French Bulldog hair loss, always visit your vet for a proper, medical opinion and diagnosis before taking any steps to treating your pet yourself. How to treat hair loss in a French Bulldog Some of these conditions, when left untreated, can cause harm to your Frenchie. In more serious cases, hair loss can often be the sign of a fatal disease so needs to be checked out by a professional. Once you have a diagnosis from a licensed vet, they will often prescribe a medical hair loss treatment for your Frenchie, ranging from topical creams and hydrocortisone shampoos to hormone treatment and antibiotics. Change their diet If your Frenchie has an allergy to a particular ingredient in dog food, then the obvious remedy is to change what you are feeding them. Natural topical remedies There are some common kitchen ingredients that you might already have that can help relieve the itching from dry skin conditions. By relieving the itching, you can reduce the hair loss and bald patches from scratching and licking. Some dog owners say lemon juice helps. It contains anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, as does apple cider vinegar, which can also help to boost the immune system. To use it, simply dilute the lemon juice or vinegar in warm water, before dipping a cotton ball into the mixture and applying it to the affected bald patch. Regular brushing will help to keep the hair healthy and could lead to a reduction in how much hair your French Bulldog loses each day. Use a humidifier Room humidifiers can really help a dog with dry and itchy skin, meaning less scratching, thus reduced hair loss. More about French Bulldog bald spots French bulldogs with hair loss behind ears Mites are a common cause of hair loss in Frenchies, even those with shorter fur, and one of the common symptoms of a mite or tick infestation in your dog is fur loss behind their ears. Ear mites are an extremely common and highly contagious species of mite in cats and dogs, causing scabbed skin around the back of their ears, as well as lesions from your pet constantly scratching to relieve the itching sensation. These open wounds can also lead to bacterial infections, resulting in crusting and discharge of pus, which may have to be treated separately. It is important that the mite infestation is treated, as it is the root cause. Once the mites have been got rid of, the scratching and skin lesions will often resolve themselves with a little topical treatment. After a few weeks you might then see the hair loss behind the ears grow back to what it used to be before the mites took hold. However, it can also be a sign of allergies. Often, allergies or skin issues can begin around the eyes and ears of your dog, before spreading outwards around the body. Common signs of discomfort around their eyes include rubbing their faces against things, excessive scratching of a particular area, eye-watering, sneezing and a runny nose. If your Frenchie is losing patches of hair around their eyes, be sure to check for any open sores and raw skin which can be a sign of dermatitis , as well as lesions and scaly skin in localized areas a symptom of ringworm. The definition of French Bulldog alopecia While it may sound like a terrible skin condition, alopecia is actually just the name for seasonal baldness. Often found in breeds of French, American and British Bulldogs, this type of hair loss is completely natural and is caused by changes in the seasons. Shorter periods of sunlight during the day triggers their hormones to regrow their fur into a thicker coat, ready for the approach of winter, and then back again for a thinner summer coat. Because of this, French Bulldog baldness and hair loss does not result in any skin conditions, dryness or itching, and is purely just a change in outward appearance and over time the hair will grow back. When seasonal baldness comes into effect, you may notice these bald patches are far darker than the rest of their skin, resulting from hyperpigmentation. This is usually seen around their flanks and hind legs, but after a while, the hair will regrow and cover the area. Conclusion Despite Frenchies only having a very short, fine coat and only losing their undercoat a couple of times a year, they do produce a lot of hair. This will often be mistaken for problematic hair loss — which instead is typically when you see patches and bald spots in isolated areas rather than uniform hair loss with natural shedding. This means that your dog still can live a happy, fulfilling life even with these medical challenges. If so, they might have pressure sores. Pressure sores, also known as bedsores or decubital ulcers, occur most often in senior dogs, large breeds, or heavy breeds. These calluses lead to thicker skin and hair loss. Older and heavier dogs are more likely to experience pressure sores simply because they are less active and oftentimes have less muscle mass. Although sometimes tricky, these sores can be prevented, and the symptoms can be alleviated. Genetics Just like with humans, genetics plays a role in hair loss in dogs. Other dog breeds simply experience patchy hair or baldness on different parts of their body, such as the chest, back, thigh, or neck. Typically, this type of hair loss occurs after the dog reaches one year old. Infection or Infestation These words sound scary, and the resulting hair loss or skin conditions can look even scarier. Hair loss from infection or infestation can be caused by ringworm fungus, mange mites, fleas, parasites, ticks, and bacteria. In fact, fleas and mites are oftentimes the most common culprits behind hair loss and allergic reactions. These pests cause irritation, which is often misdiagnosed as an allergic reaction resulting in unnecessary treatments such as steroids. While many dogs will lick, bite, and scratch at the infected skin, resulting in wide-spread hair loss, there are additional signs and symptoms to watch out for. Some signs your dog might be experiencing an infection or infestation are as follows: Hair loss around the ears, eyes, and mouth Oily skin.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. We produce beautiful black and red, as well as solid black German Shepherd puppies. We keep our puppy owners actively involved from before the time your pup is even born! You will get progress updates on mom, pictures as she grows, videos of the puppies moving in mom, etc all up until the day the pups are born. Then, you will get updates as the puppies are born, as well as pictures. It is not just about coming to pick up a puppy at 8 weeks, but it is a growing relationship between us to truly have you a part of our Samherz family. We become good friends with a lot of our puppy owners, as there will always be questions, concerns, stories, etc to share after you take your new puppy home. We are here to help. We require the best for our puppies, and we want you to have the best too. Samherz is located on 35 acres of gorgeous land, giving our dogs and puppies exposure to sights, sounds, smells and everything in between to ensure they grow up well socialized. We have done extensive research to choose the best pairings to produce top quality companion animals, as well as conformation, sport and working prospects. We currently breed European bloodlines only, avoiding crossing any working lines. Our breeding program proudly uses dogs that have generations beyond generations of solid hip and elbow clearances, as we follow SV guidelines in which all parents, grandparents, etc have certifications. Our puppies are true German shepherds, not American line, and are bred within the breed standard. We breed health tested and stable temperament dogs only. Our dogs are part of our family, loved and cared for and raised in our home. Feel free to contact us with questions, comments or simply to share pictures of your pups! We love to expand our friendship pool! Samherz Shepherds name came from the heart of our kennel, Samurai, call name Sam. The German word for heart is "herz". It is with great honor that our kennel is named after our impeccable companion, Sam. We will see him again on the other side of the rainbow bridge. Proudly created by Wix. Minnesota German Shepherd Breeder located in Brainerd. German Shepherd Resources German Shepherds are truly gems of the Canine world, so it comes as no surprise that you are considering or have decided to add to your family. The breed is highly versatile as it can be used as family dogs or companion dogs, show dogs, police dogs, therapy dogs, and a lot more. They are a true working dog breed with a lot of love to give. They are blessed with high intelligence so they are easily trainable dogs which is what makes them very versatile. States like Minnesota are no strangers to the German Shepherd breed. There are lots of German Shepherd breeders residing in different locations within the state. And just as there are many breeders, not all these breeders are reputable breeders that truly care for the breed. This is why it is recommended that you take out the extra time to know your chosen breeder. In this article, we try to make the search for a good German Shepherd breeder a lot easier for you by providing you with a list of 10 good German Shepherd breeders in Minnesota that have showcased good breeding practices as well as impressive socialization and training programs for each of their German Shepherd litters. We advise that you only view this list as a mere guide to aid you in finding that perfect German Shepherd puppy for you. With that being said, do ensure you read till the end as it promises to be both engaging and informative. Located in Roosevelt, Minnesota, Northern Sky German Shepherds is a reputable German Shepherd breeder that is focused on raising AKC-registered German Shepherd puppies that are mainly bred as family companions but also double as either therapy dogs or service dogs. Their dogs are IPO titled and are either solid black in color or black and red. All their German Shepherd parents are imports from West German show lines with impressive pedigrees and good health. They are blessed with good conformation, high intelligence, and decent temperament. Their dogs are made to undergo genetic health testing as well as orthopedic health testing to show they are indeed ready to be added to their breeding program. When they are not being bred, they are kept as family pets. All dogs both adult and puppies are raised in the home of Lyndi and Russ located in Roosevelt, Minnesota. Their puppies are properly socialized using humans both children and adults to keep them occupied. They are also given basic training and are properly checked by the licensed vet who administers their vaccination shots and deworming. Every puppy should come with a written health guarantee. They should be vaccinated and dewormed and also come microchipped.

Print Crate training your Lab puppy, why you should and a guide on how Labrador puppies are so cute and cuddly, it almost seems wrong to put them in a crate. But crate training is one of the best things you can do for your new puppy and for yourself. There are many benefits to crate training your retriever puppy, but it is a process. Learn how to properly crate train a Labrador puppy and why you should start crate training as soon as possible. Why should I crate train my Labrador? While some people think putting a dog in a crate is cruel, experts disagree. Most veterinarians, trainers, and breeders recommend crate training dogs from a young age. Dogs are den animals and often feel most safe when they are in a tight, confined area. A crate can represent this den-like experience for your puppy and give them a place to retreat when they feel stressed, confused, or just need some time alone. Dogs that are crate trained properly do not fear the crate, in fact, they love it and will often seek it out for a nap. Easy and safe transport Crates are the safest way to transport dogs. A dog contained in a crate cannot move around within your vehicle, get in your way while driving or create distractions. In addition, you can buy crates that are 5-star crash tested , possibly giving your dog superior protection if you are involved in an accident. Crates help with housebreaking As discussed in our post on housebreaking your Labrador puppy , crate training can make housebreaking easier and quicker. Crates allow you, as owner, some off-time — time when you do not have to be constantly watching your puppy for potty accidents. In addition, crates help encourage your puppy to hold it, to wait a little longer before going potty, since most puppies hate to mess their bed. Note: My husband and I are professional retriever trainers, so any products listed here are items we use on an almost daily basis. We only recommend products we know are good quality and will stand the test of time. When possible, I include links to the product. Some of these links may be affiliate links in which I am paid a small commission, but all opinions and recommendations are my own. Learn more. Can help hunting dogs with blind manners and patience Hunting dogs often need to sit still and quiet for hours on end. Sometime in dog huts or MoMarsh stands. Crates can help hunting dogs by teaching them there is a place that they should simply lay down, rest and keep quiet. Better dog to family relationships and more control Crate training your puppy can provide many benefits for your entire family. Crate training your puppy at a young age means that when you need to put them in a crate they will go in willingly and without a fight. As professional retriever trainers, we crate train all the puppies we raise as custom trained dogs. We also crate train all our own dogs. We find that it makes for a better adjusted puppy all around. Choosing the right crate for crate training Lab puppy Getting ready to crate train your puppy means you need to buy a crate. And the size and type of crate do matter. Size of crate for crate training retrievers You want the crate to be large enough that your puppy is comfortable laying in the crate, but not so big that your puppy can walk around. The puppy should feel snug and protected, but not uncomfortable. The unfortunate thing about crate training this way, is that it means that as your puppy grows, you will need progressively larger crates. While inconvenient and bit more costly, this really is the best way to crate train your puppy. But if you do not wish to buy multiple crates, there are other methods. Some people buy a large crate, the size their dog will need as an adult and then section off some of the crate. Blocking off a portion of the crate will give the puppy that tighter, den-like, experience and ensure that the puppy cannot walk around inside the crate. While this can work, be careful what you use to section the crate off. You would not want to use a material that can be chewed or ingested by your puppy. Puppies are naturally chewers, so keep this in mind. Type of crate for crate training retriever Technically, any kind of crate will work for crate training. But over the years we have found that some crates just simply work better. Plastic crates seem to be the best option. They can be found easily at a local pet store, superstore, or even bought online. There are some inexpensive options that provide the protection and privacy of a den-like experience for the dogs. In addition, they have a solid bottom so should your dog get sick, or if you are in the process of housebreaking, cleanup is rather easy. Wire crates , the kind that you can see right through do not seem to work as well as plastic crates. Wire crates are wide open, they do not provide dogs the opportunity to get away and relax. The wire offers little protection and privacy, and many dogs do not like them as dens. We discuss crate options in more detail here. How to crate train a Lab puppy? Crate training is easiest when done with young puppies. We recommend starting crate training the day you bring the pup home from the breeder. Often this is at around weeks old. The sooner you start, the easier the process will be. Crate training can be done with older dogs, but it may take more effort and patience on your part. Step 1 — Let puppy explore the crate The first step is to place the crate in an area that is frequented by the puppy. Prop the door open in some way, a small bungee works well and let your puppy explore the crate on his own. Puppies are naturally curious, so often they will walk right into the crate on their own. It is best if you do not move the crate around the house. Instead, find a place for the crate where the dog will spend a majority of their time and leave it there. The crate should not be right next to a bed or a bedroom. Your puppy will be sleeping in their crate and your puppy will make more noise and wake up more if the crate is close to you. Also, your puppy is bound to make some noise the first few nights in the crate. Step 2- Establish a routine Develop a routine of putting your puppy down to nap inside the crate. You can put one or two small toys in the crate if you wish and a small towel that you do not care if it gets ruined. I know this sounds self-explanatory, but I have seen it. Also, do not put a dog bed in the crate. A dog bed is too big and bulky to fit into crates well and your puppy will simply chew it to pieces or accidently have a potty accident on it. Once that happens, the bed will have the scent of potty and will work against your housebreaking efforts. That is natural and nothing to be worried about. Simply walk away from the crate and allow the puppy to settle down. Depending on the nature of your puppy this may take a few minutes to an hour or more. It is vital that you stay away from the crate during this time. If you follow this advice, your puppy will quickly learn to be content in the crate and over time the noise will become less and less until they finally understand they must stay in the crate. Step 3 — Watch the clock While I suggest you do not take your puppy out of the crate while they are making noise, you do need to keep an eye on how long your puppy has been in the crate. You do not want your puppy to have an accident in the crate if you can help it. With week old puppies, I start by leaving the puppy in the crate for 1 hour at a time followed by playtime. As the puppy gets older, they can naturally hold their bladder longer. This should go without saying, but you should never leave your dog in a crate 24 hours a day every day. Socialization of young puppies is vital. Block the crate door open again. The door should be blocked open anytime the puppy has not been placed in the crate for some quiet time. The puppy will see or smell the toys and go inside the crate to get them. Some people play crate games. They will throw a toy inside the crate so that the puppy must go inside the crate to retrieve it. These games can help your dog become extremely comfortable with their crate. Over time you will notice that your puppy is not afraid to go inside their crate while the door is open. Sometimes, they will even go inside the crate and lay down when they are tired. This is the reaction you are seeking. How long does it take to crate train a dog? There is no set amount of time it takes to crate train a dog. Each dog will progress on their own schedule. But if you continue to place your puppy inside the crate on a routine basis and make the crate available to your puppy at all times, you will reap the benefits of having successfully crate trained your puppy. Final thoughts on how to crate train a Labrador puppy Crate training is a greatly beneficial thing for Labrador puppies and other retriever breeds. It can mimic a den for these beautiful animals and give them a safe and secure place where they can rest without stress or fear. This helps them with emotional stability and can curb behavior issues. It also makes for a more enjoyable home life with less dog induced strife. How to crate train a Labrador puppy. This article gives guidance on how to crate train an older dog. A List Of Dog Crates Highly Recommended By Labrador Training HQ A high quality, durable crate of the correct size and type is essential to guarantee safety, comfort and to get the best out of the crate training experience. But with so many styles, types and sizes available, selecting a suitable crate is no easy task. So we at Labrador Training HQ have taken the hard work out of the hunt by putting together a hand picked selection of the best crates available that you can see by reading this article. Travel safety — A crate is a very useful tool to confine your dog safely during travel by car or by air and reduces the stress they feel due to being in a comfortable and familiar crate. Security — A dog learns to view their crate as a special place all of their own, where no human ventures and they can get away from it all to be alone when they desire. A crate is the one tool that can be used to dramatically speed up the time needed to train your lab to toilet outside and to improve their bladder and bowel control. Protecting your possessions — A crate is a useful tool in teaching your puppy to be fixated on chew toys and not your furniture and shoes. A quick note about boarding and kennels. When our Linus got sick he had to stay in the kennel at the vets office while he recovered. Thank goodness he was crate trained. When I came in to stay with him he was comfortable in his crate with an IV hanging out of his leg. These are just some of the benefits you and your Labrador can enjoy if you take the time and trouble to crate train your dog. Is Crate Training Always Successful? Sadly not. Dogs are individuals and come with their own likes and dislikes. So although a crate can be used to benefit the vast majority of dogs, there will always be a select few that just will not enjoy or accept being crated. It helped our last 3 puppies Charlie, Doni, and Downey get used to their crate in only a few nights. This is particularly true for the occasional adopted dog for which their background is unknown. Dogs up for adoption may have had bad and traumatic experiences with crates earlier on in their lives, where owners used a crate as a form of punishment or misused a crate amounting to imprisonment. Obviously in these cases, a crate should not be used. These cases though are the exception and not the rule. The vast majority of dogs learn to love and enjoy spending time in their crate. I believe everybody should at least educate themselves on the subject and give it a go. By soaking up the knowledge in this guide and following the steps I outline for crate training, you and your Lab can enjoy the rewards that using a crate provides. Your Lab will be happier, safer, more secure, less likely to engage in destructive behavior and from these facts you can enjoy a greater peace of mind that you are doing the very best for your dog. One of our favorite features is the crate comes with a divider that allows you to adjust the size of your crate as your puppy grows. I will always try my best to respond to every one of them. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. You can find a summary of these in my crate training schedule chart below Stage 1 Introduction to crate training for puppies from 8 weeks old This stage covers the first week that you bring your puppy home. Your objective at stage 1 is simply to get the puppy used to being in and around the crate with the door open. Leave the door open Start by placing puppy in his crate frequently and each time you place him in there drop several little edible treats through the roof for him. Just let him come straight out again when he has finished his treats. This introduces the crate as a fun and enjoyable place to be. He will soon come to associate this phrase with going into his crate for a treat Closing the door briefly The next step is to close the crate door momentarily and then open it again. Leave it shut only long enough for the puppy to finish his treat and notice that the door is closed. Then let him out. Do not wait until he gets upset or cries. Repeat many, many times during the course of the next day or two. If he is left alone at night whilst he is still homesick he is likely to howl, and howling in his new crate is not a habit we want to establish. Tending to your puppy during the night If the box is right up against the side of your bed, you can put your hand in and comfort him if he cries. Moving your puppy downstairs at night After the first three or four nights, or by the end of the first week, your puppy can be placed in his crate in the kitchen before you go up to bed at night. So if you put him to bed at midnight, you will probably need to get up around 5am to let him out for a wee to begin with. If a puppy has fallen asleep in his crate and slept for more than a couple of hours then you will need to let him out if he wakes up crying. Getting more sleep! If all goes well, you can stretch this five hours out by 15 minutes or so a night until you are getting seven hours sleep. If he wets the bed you will need to get up earlier the next night. And some puppies will be 12 to 14 weeks before they can cope this long. You can find lot more information on teaching your puppy to be clean and dry in our potty training sections. Crate training during the day There is no immediate need to crate your new puppy during the day for more than a few minutes at a time. The main purpose of crating a puppy during the day is to Help the puppy learn to hold onto the contents of his bladder for a bit longer. To keep him safe when you are busy for short periods, or if you need to leave the house for a while. To give him chance to calm down or a break from small children. However, you do need to get the puppy used to spending longer periods in the crate in preparation for being left alone from time to time when he is older. So gradually, you will accustom the puppy to a few longer spells in his crate. These are tough hollow rubber toys that you fill with mushy food and freeze. You can freeze several Kongs at once by standing them on a baking tray in the freezer. Each time you put the puppy in his crate for more than a couple of minutes, you will leave a frozen food filled Kong in there to keep him company. Puppies love these and will soon grow to associate the crate with the pleasure of the frozen Kong. How to get the puppy used to longer crate times Once you have got to the end of the first week and the puppy has accepted the crate as a nice place to be, the next task is to get the puppy to accept the closed door for longer periods of time. This may take a day or two. Place him in the crate with his frozen kong and close the door for 30 seconds. The idea is to leave the door closed for a few seconds longer each time you crate the puppy. But it is very important only to open the door when the puppy has been silent for several seconds. What to do if the puppy cries in his crate If the puppy starts to whimper or howl you will need to turn away from the crate and ignore him. Wait for the silence as he stops crying and gets to work on his puppy kong. Tell him what a good dog he is. Let him out immediately and go back to much briefer periods of closed door for a while. Try ten seconds or five. Build up again gradually, but do not be tempted to avoid crating him because it upsets him. Once the puppy is happy in his crate, you can use it to help with his potty training. Until then, make sure that you crate him for very short periods when you know his bladder is empty. Otherwise he will wet himself when he gets upset. Puppies that cry need crating more often! If your puppy whines in the crate, you need to crate him more often not less, and for shorter periods. Check out our in-depth article on coping with a crying puppy for more information Just make sure that each time he is crated is very, very brief to begin with. That way he will learn that being crated is not a big deal Warning: if you open the crate door whilst your puppy is howling, he will howl longer and harder next time! Build up slowly to a minute, then two minutes, then three, five, seven, ten, fifteen minutes and so on. How long can a puppy be left in a crate People often ask how long a puppy can be left alone in his crate. For puppies three to six months old I think two hours is a maximum, and for puppies under three months, one hour. If you need to leave your puppy for longer than this, then you need to consider a puppy proof room or pen where water and puppy pads are always available, or even a weatherproof outdoor kennel and run. This involves putting puppy pads down in a large puppy pen or puppy proofed room so that your puppy always has access to a toilet area. You can find out much more about overcoming the problems of being a working puppy parent in this article: combining a puppy with full time work. Stage 3 Training your puppy to go into his crate on command! As your puppy grows bigger, picking him up and putting him in his crate becomes more of a physical event! Provided you are not leaving your puppy alone for too long, he should be happy to go willingly into his crate. This can be achieved through training. This will probably take a couple of weeks. Maybe more if your puppy really does not like his crate at the moment. Have several training sessions each day — at least three. And do 20 or 30 repetitions of the following exercise in each session. This will take you about five minutes. If you are have never used one before, check out this article before you begin: Charging your clicker. Imagine a zone around the crate. It should not be so small that the dog avoids it altogether. A couple of feet in each direction is fine. The object is to get your puppy to choose to enter this zone. You are teaching him to chose to approach the crate. EXERCISE 2 entering the crate doorway In this exercise, you are going to click and treat the dog for putting a nose, or a paw through the opening into a crate. For some dogs this is too big a jump and you will need to work on a smaller crate zone first. We are moving the goalposts and the dog will be surprised when you do not reward him for entering the zone. He will quickly try something different. Have the dog in the room with you Make sure the crate door is wide open Click and treat each time the dog enters the crate zone Repeat five times Throw the treat outside the zone so that he has to re-enter to get the next reward. The next time he enters the zone, wait for him to go closer to the crate and put his nose in the opening What if he fails to do this? Repeat from step 3 until the dog repeatedly puts his nose through the crate door. Now you can stop rewarding him for simply entering the zone. It just takes longer with some dogs than others. Use his entire food ration if necessary. Remember, if you have to go out, scoop him up without a word, and place him in there bodily. Do not use the clicker or any other part of this process, or attempt to lure him in. You going out is a punishment in his mind. Behavior that is punished will diminish. When you click, he will come dashing out again for his treat. Again, we begin the exercise with something we know he can already do Have the dog in the room with you Make sure the crate door is wide open Click and treat each time the dog puts his nose through the crate doorway Repeat five times Throw each treat outside the zone so that he has to re-enter to get the next reward. The next time he puts his nose through the doorway, withold the click. Wait for him to go further in Repeat and gradually raise the criteria you are setting so that more and more of the dog must be through the doorway to get a reward. The exercise is done when the dog repeatedly goes right inside his crate. With a dog that is not crate-shy, you can often work through these three Exercises in a day or two. EXERCISE 4 spending time in the crate Have the dog in the room with you Make sure the crate door is wide open Click and treat each time the dog goes inside the crate Repeat five times The next time he enters the crate withold the click and treat for two seconds If he remains in the crate click and treat If he leaves the crate wait for him to re-enter Repeat from step five until he can wait 2 seconds in the crate and then increase to 3 seconds Work your way up to ten seconds When the dog can cope with ten seconds waiting in the crate, you are ready to close the door. To begin with this will be momentary EXERCISE 5 closing the door Have the dog in the room with you Make sure the crate door is wide open Click and treat after 10 seconds, each time the dog goes inside the crate Repeat five times The next time he enters the crate close the door and immediately open it again Wait a few seconds then If he remains in the crate click and treat If he leaves the crate wait for him to re-enter Repeat from step five until he will go into the crate, watch you open and close the door, and remain in the crate for a few more seconds after you have opened the door. We are nearly there! Use the cue you have chosen. You know the procedure now. We want him to have absorbed the association between this cue and the act of entering the crate. Now it is time to use the cue in advance of the behavior. Once the dog is repeatedly racing into the crate on your cue, we need to make sure he can distinguish this command from other commands. In this case the dog is not discriminating between different cues, but rather making assumptions about what game you are going to play. So the next step in training is to mix in another cue. If he is confused, and he may be, show him what you want, just like before. You now have a dog that actually understands the meaning of In Your Crate and happily complies with your command. It is time for him to adapt to being confined after being told to go in there. Start slowly and build up EXERCISE 9 adding duration Place a Kong with food in it, or some treats on a slow feed bowl into the crate without your dog spotting you Cue the dog into the crate call him into the room first Shut the door and leave it closed for one minute Open the door again and ignore the dog. It is up to him if he stays in the crate or comes out Repeat from step 1 gradually increasing the time you wait before opening the door Vary the length of time you keep the door closed. Sometimes two minutes, sometimes as much as fifteen minutes. Now you can begin to send the dog into his crate for longer periods, such as when you go out for an hour or so. Maintenance tips Send the puppy into his crate often, not just when you need to. Make sure there is always a tasty treat or a Kong in there waiting for him Sometimes when you send him in, close the door If you know you are going to go out shut him in at least ten minutes before you start getting ready to leave If you know you are going to go out always leave him with a Kong full of frozen food When you are not going out, vary the times he is shut in from two to thirty minutes Send him in from time to time without closing the door Provided your dog is not left overly long in a crate on a regular basis, this should overcome any shyness he has about going in there. Dogs of any age can be trained to crate on cue using this system. For more information on using a clicker check out : Ten great reasons to start clicker training Stage 4 Growing up By twelve weeks or three months old, many puppies will be sleeping 7 hours or more at night and going happily into their crates on cue, if they have been taught to do this. When to let your puppy out of the crate at night If all goes well, by about six months of age, your Labrador puppy should be clean and dry in the house, and sleeping soundly through the night in his crate. At this point, many puppy owners breath a big sigh of relief and start to look forward to the prospect of removing this massive and annoying crate from their kitchen for good. So, at what age is it OK to start leaving a puppy loose in the kitchen overnight? And how do you get your dog used to a basket or dog bed, rather than sleeping in his crate? Age related crate training schedules Most people are reluctant to give out information on how long a puppy should be crated, or what to expect at different stages, because puppies are so different from one another. So, I have included a rough guide or puppy crate training chart above. It really is just a rough guide. Your best approach is to simply follow the four stages outlined above, from start to finish, and not worry too much about where your dog is at the moment. Crate of the correct size for your dog Treats Blanket or dog bed According to the American Kennel Club, Labs are one of the most popular breeds in America , and for good reasons. Many love to play fetch, and others are glad to be your running buddy. You have a long fun life ahead of you with your Labrador retriever puppy. Should that life include crate training? Crate training a Lab puppy is actually a good idea. Image used with permission by copyright holder Are Labs easy to crate train? You may have some pet-parent guilt about putting your fur baby in a crate. The good news is that Labs often make crate training easy on their parents. They love making their humans happy, so they take to all kinds of training well, including crates. Every puppy is different, though. Your veterinarian or a trainer can help you through any troubles that may arise. Crate training a Lab puppy is one of the best ways you can help them thrive in their new home. Experts say your new pup will reap many benefits from having a crate, including: Easier potty training. Housebreaking can be one of the tallest tasks new pet parents have to work on with their Lab puppies. Crate training makes it a little easier and less messy. Reduced stress. Labs tend to be adaptable, but a new home can be stressful for anyone. Even social pets need to chill sometimes. Consider it a space for self-care, kind of like your bedroom may be for you. Safer car rides. A crate is one of the safest spots for a pet in the car. Image used with permission by copyright holder How to crate train a Lab puppy Though Labs tend to take to training quickly, they still need some guidance from you. Step 1: Select the correct crate size for your puppy. Labs will generally grow to weigh 55 to 80 pounds. You want a space your pet can move around in comfortably. They should be able to sit , lie down, stand, and turn. The puppy may soil the space if they have enough room. Most crates will have height and weight specifications on them, and once you have that information, you can purchase one. Step 2: Make the crate comfy. You probably made your bedroom into a comfortable spot for you to sleep at night. Make it a cozy hangout spot by putting some blankets or a bed in there. Toys keep it fun. Crate Training and Toilet Training Crate training Done right, crate training is possibly the best thing you will ever do for your dog. Crate training is a very popular way of keeping puppies safe and is a highly effective tool to fast track toilet training. The dog comes to see the crate as his own space, his den, his safe-haven, and his favourite place to sleep. Some puppies love their crates immediately, while others need a little time to acclimate. Our labradors are crate trained very early, and by the time you pick up your puppy from us, he will already be familiar with a crate. Most dogs quickly choose a small area, such a corner of a room, or under a table, or near a couch where they like to relax. Crate training techniques Make the crate comfortable with bedding and safe toys. Encourage him to enter the crate of his own will, by tossing some treats inside the door of the crate. Provide a crate-mountable water bucket. For a puppy, the bucket should be shallow with only a small amount of water in the bottom. Once the puppy is comfortable inside the crate with you nearby, gradually move further away and out of sight, building up the duration. Feed him his meals inside the crate to continue a positive association with the crate. If the puppy whines or barks in his crate, wait until he is quiet before opening the door and letting him out. The process of crate-acclimatisation can be adapted to adult dogs too. The crate is a not a punishment tool. It is a safe and comfortable place to go, so do not punish him by confining him to his crate when he has done something wrong. The crate is not a long-term confinement means. Dogs should be allowed to exercise and freely move about in the yard, a secure area, or within the home. The puppy only goes into his crate for short periods of time, and to sleep at night. He may sleep in there for scheduled rest periods each day and of course during the night , when you have visitors or are cooking in the kitchen, or anytime he needs a nap or quiet time to relax. A young puppy has limited bladder control. If you leave him there too long, you are forcing him to soil his bed which dogs absolutely hate soiling their own bed. This will cause him to be very upset and is very unfair. Always toilet him before asking him to go to his crate. Keep reading below for toilet-training lessons. Whining and barking are fundamental aspects of puppyhood, especially in young puppies. Make sure to never reinforce the behaviour by letting him out of the crate while he is crying or whining. Wait a short time until he is quiet before letting him out. This way he learns that he is allowed out when he is quiet and calm, and that yelling does not get his way providing you have met all his physical needs such as toileting, feeding and watering. The crate should be big enough for the puppy to stand and turn around comfortably. If the crate is too big, your puppy might find a corner to soil in. To make the crate more den-like and feel safe, put a blanket or crate cover over the crate, leaving one end or side open for movement of air. This has a calming effect for most dogs. Good places to keep the crate are near your kitchen or family room. A radio or television playing in the background or a clock ticking nearby, may help to calm the dog when you are out of his sight in the house, as this can mask environmental noises that can stimulate him to vocalize. Toileting training or house-training your puppy Probably the first thing puppy-owners wish for is a house-trained puppy. This achievable and only requires you understand your puppy and are consistent. Your puppy has no choice about going to the toilet, it is the most natural thing in the world. If your puppy has run of the house unsupervised, you are setting him up to fail — toileting inside the house is inevitable and impedes house-training. Crate training helps fast track the process because a puppy never desires to soil his own bed he is the one who has to sleep there. Crate him for his meal, take him out the toilet on his leash about 10 minutes after his meal and stay with him to observe he has done his business. Puppies have very little control over their small bladder, and have no idea that there is a right and wrong place to toilet. If you can avoid accidents as much as possible from the start, you will make faster progress — this means the more effort you put in at the beginning the better things will be. Puppies will toilet where they have been before. So, if an accident occurs, be sure to clean up very well, as he will smell that is where he has been before and likely try to go there again. You have to teach your puppy where he needs to be before he takes a pee or poop. Times when your puppy is guaranteed to toilet: within 10 minutes of any food or water or play, and when he wakes. These are the times you especially need to take him to his toilet spot. Signs of an impending pee or poop include: circling and sniffing, a bulging anus, agitation and whimpering. A labrador puppy can be toilet-trained by the age of 4 months old if you are diligent and consistent in your toilet-training. Be aware that despite all your hard effort, the occasional accident might still occur. You missed the signs that he needed to go. Never punish a puppy for an accident. Toilet him sooner the next time and praise him. At night, carry him out quietly no talking to him , ask him to go to the toilet when you place him down in his toilet area, and quietly return him to his bed so he will resettle.

References 1. Clinical and pathological effects Canine atopic dermatitis is a genetically-predisposed inflammatory and pruritic itchy allergic skin disease with characteristic clinical features. Allergic diseases result from an exaggerated immune system response that causes pathological damage. Some of the immune cells which help defend the body produce proteins called antibodies when stimulated to do so. Antibodies help the immune cells get rid of the pathogens invading the body. Anything that stimulates the immune system is called an antigen. Antigens are normally parts of the invading pathogen, but sometimes otherwise harmless substances stimulate an immune response in individuals who are prone to allergies and exaggerated immune responses. Any substance that can stimulate an allergic immune response is called an allergen. Atopy is associated with the immune system over-producing a type of antibodies called IgE. The clinical features of atopy are variable but the permanent cardinal feature, always present, is itchiness, which varies in degree from mild to severe. A dog may be itchy over its whole skin but more usually the itchiness is localised. The commonest areas to be affected are the ears, around the eyes, the muzzle, the underside of the neck and abdomen, the inside of the legs, the feet and under the tail Nuttall et al .In the early stages of the disease there may just be itchiness, however, redness of the skin will soon be seen. This may be general redness or red spots papules. Further problems arise either from long-term itchiness and the self harm that is caused from scratching, rubbing and chewing of the itchy area or from the presence of skin infections with bacteria both abnormally high numbers of normal skin bacteria and infections from bacteria not usually present and with skin yeasts normally present in low numbers. Atopy itself and the secondary skin changes that occur both make these infections more likely. Infected skin tends to itch and the consequential scratching, rubbing and chewing causes further, secondary skin damage and a vicious circle of itching and scratching and worsening skin damage develops. For many atopic dogs this means constant itchiness as it is often impossible to avoid constant exposure to its problematic allergen - house dust mite. Secondary skin changes often seen in atopic dogs include: lichenification thickening of the skin , a coat that is greasy and scaly dandruff and loss of fur alopecia. Pustules and crusts are seen when there is bacterial infection and, when this is deeper in the skin, nodules with pus draining from sinuses may be seen. Otitis externa inflammation of the ear canal is often seen in atopic dogs and sometimes is the main clinical problem. This follows the same pattern as atopic disease elsewhere — the ear canal is lined with skin. Initially there may just be redness but constant irritation, excess secretions and thickening of the skin with secondary bacterial and yeast infections lead to a vicious cycle until the ear canal becomes irreversibly damaged. The clinical signs include scratching at the ears, head shaking, rubbing the ears on the ground, a smelly discharge from the ears. Severe infections can lead to septicaemia bacterial infection in the bloodstream. There are currently two main theories for the pathogenesis of atopy and there is good evidence that both are important. Atopic individuals have an abnormal immune response. Allergens are detected in the skin by the immune system. In atopic individuals there is an imbalance of two types of immune cell ie more T helper 2 lymphocytes and fewer T helper 1 lymphocytes. This imbalance leads to other changes in the immune system, which make it respond excessively to small amounts of allergen in the future, easily generating skin inflammation. Excessive amounts of an antibody type IgE are present in the body. A second fundamental abnormality seen in atopic individuals is that they have a skin barrier defect. Their skin suffers from increased water loss and foreign substances such as allergens, bacteria and yeast can penetrate more easily than normal. This allows more contact of the allergens with the immune system see above. Allergens from the house dust mite Dermatophagoides farina are the most important. Allergies to other mites such as Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Euroglyphus maynei, Acarus siro and Tyrophagus putrescentiae are either less common or may be largely due to cross reaction with D. Cross-reactions occur when a test detects one substance rather than another. Sensitivity to pollens can certainly be important but are usually seasonal in the UK. Many types of tree pollens are involved in canine atopy, and grass pollens are commonly involved. There are also many weeds implicated in canine atopy eg ragweed, plantain and mugwort. The importance of mould allergens in canine atopy is uncertain. Other allergens which have been considered of importance in the past, but which are no longer, include cockroach and other insects, house dust, fabrics such as cotton, wool and linen. An important concept in the pathogenesis of canine atopic dermatitis is that of the pruritic threshold. An individual may not be itchy just because it is atopic eg if it is mildly atopic. It may need another factor to combine with the atopy to tip it over the threshold of having clinical signs. So, various factors that can cause itchy skin may combine. In some dogs, just having one or two of these factors may not cause a problem but if a third or fourth occurs then disease will follow. An inherited atopic state is an important predisposing factor in many animals and a leading cause of welfare problems in dogs. They may also include environmental factors such as flea infestation or a dry climate. One important environmental influence may be the degree of early exposure to allergens for genetically predisposed individuals. There is evidence that prolonged and more intensive exposure to allergens in early life makes atopic dermatitis more likely and also that it is more likely to be severe. This is the case both for house dust mite allergens de Weck , de Weck et al and for pollens; pollen allergies may be more common in puppies born during the pollen season Halliwell .Return to top 2. The primary itch due to atopy itself varies from mild to severe between individuals. It may also vary according to the season and environment that the dog is experiencing ie whether it is housed indoors or outside and where it is exercising, for example a dog allergic mostly to grasses may be better at the seaside than walking through meadows. Skin infections worsen the condition and their severity can vary. Atopy can cause great suffering in moderately-severely affected dogs due to the constant skin itching and irritation and the secondary damage that is done by the dog to its skin creating sore inflamed areas that are uncomfortable and possibly painful. Atopy can be difficult to control medically and suffering can be difficult to avoid during the time when a diagnosis of atopic dermatitis is being confirmed. This can be a prolonged and involved procedure see below. Treatment of atopic dermatitis usually involves drugs. The most effective treatments are based on corticosteroids or ciclosporin, both of which can have significant side effects with their own welfare issues. Some atopic dogs become seriously ill due to the side effects of treatment. Frequent shampooing is often required which may be unpleasant for some dogs. Dogs are euthanized because of atopic dermatitis. This is often because diagnosis and treatment are time-consuming and expensive for owners and reasonable long-term control is often the best that can be achieved rather than there being any hope of cure. Return to top 3. Duration of welfare impact Signs of atopy can be seen in some individuals from the age of months. More usually signs start between the ages of months. It is unusual for signs to start after three years. Some dogs have seasonal problems when its pollen allergens that they are allergic to but often dogs that had seasonal problems when younger will develop problems lasting all year round when they are older. Without treatment affected dogs will have the problem for life although the severity will usually wax and wane according to the amount of allergens they are exposed to at any given time, secondary infections, any exacerbating factors such as catching fleas and the weather, and the success of treatments. Treatment of atopic dermatitis is involved and lifelong. Drugs are used in most dogs and these are often required constantly. Return to top 4. A study by Shaw et al investigated the pedigrees of dogs used as guide dogs for the blind that had been diagnosed with clinically significant atopic dermatitis. From data on estimates of total dog population in the UK and on the percentage of all micro-chip registered dogs that are Labrador retrievers Lucy Asher, , personal communication , we estimate that the UK population size of this breed may be around 1 million. Return to top 5. Diagnosis The diagnosis of atopic dermatitis is complicated. There is no characteristic clinical sign or laboratory test result that enables the diagnosis to be made. Over the years there have been various attempts to create formal schemes to aid this process Willemse , Prelaud et al .The currently favoured scheme was created and tested by Favrot et al and its use clarified by Olivry .The Favrot diagnostic criteria for canine atopic dermatitis - used alongside the elimination of other possible causes of the signs see below. This means that if dogs were diagnosed, using this scheme alone, then 21 of this would have the wrong diagnosis — they actually have another cause of their disease, not atopy. Furthermore, there would have been another 15 dogs that actually do have atopy but had been excluded because the five criteria needed have not been found. For these reasons the scheme can not be used alone. The difficulties arise because all the clinical signs of atopic dermatitis are also seen in other common skin diseases. In order to make any of these schemes more reliable they have to be combined with tests that seek to excluded these other conditions. Mange mite infestations , and bacterial and yeast infections are ruled out by examinations of skin samples and trial treatments. Contact irritation and allergy is ruled out by avoidance of potential causes. Fleas are ruled out by trial treatment. Some rarer skin diseases may need to be ruled out by skin biopsy. Tests can be performed to identify which allergens are involved for a particular atopic dog. Unfortunately, these tests are not reliable in determining whether a dog is atopic or not and results of these tests are not used in making the diagnosis Favrot et al .Allergy testing can be performed using blood tests or intra-dermal into the skin injections. Return to top 6. The heritability of atopy has been studied by Shaw et al .When considering guide dogs as a whole, a heritability of 0. The majority of these dogs were Labrador retrievers but Golden retrievers and Labrador-Golden retriever crosses were also represented. Given that all these puppies were raised in similar conditions it is reasonable to say that about half of the factors that caused them to have clinical atopic dermatitis were genetic and half were environmental. Canine atopic dermatitis is likely to be one manifestation of canine atopy. There is evidence for an important dominant gene; at least in one line of Beagles de Weck , de Weck et al .A start has been made to investigate specific genes involved in several breeds, including the Labrador retriever but, as yet, there are few publications available Wood et al .Return to top 7. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? This has not been scientifically tested. There are no genetic tests to guide us. In common with other polygenetic disorders with important environmental influences, it may be considered that any affected individual or an individual with an affected close relative parent or sibling should not be considered for breeding. However, this advice has not been tested and other considerations such as narrowing the gene pool and concurrent genetic diseases, such as hip dysplasia must also be considered. Return to top 8. Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem It may be considered that individuals with atopic dermatitis should not be used for breeding. This would include any affected individual, even if only mildly affected. This is because environmental factors are certainly important in whether an atopic individual has clinical signs and how bad they are. Not breeding from animals with a close relative that has suffered from any degree of atopic dermatitis would also be recommended, based on general information given for reducing disease resulting from polygenetic conditions Bell .But considerations should be given to not overbreed from individuals that are healthy, as far as atopy goes, which could have other problems as this could have unintended and undesirable genetic consequences Oberbauer .In breeds, such as the Labrador retriever, it may be necessary to widen the gene pool by introducing genes from other breeds. Return to top 9. Meat by-products Cheap fillers The elimination diet consists of a trial period in which you expose your pet to foods one at a time to rule out possible allergens. In fact, it will probably be easier if you prepare fresh ingredients from scratch so no artificial preservatives are introduced. A Sample Elimination Diet Using Hypoallergenic Ingredients Note: Just because a source of food is considered hypoallergenic does not rule out the possibility that it will cause an allergy in your dog. Dogs all have their unique immune systems, and hypoallergenic ingredients are just a starting point. Week One: Cooked ground bison mixed with mashed sweet potatoes. Week Two: If itching persists, switch out the bison for cooked ground turkey. Week Three: If itching persists, switch out the turkey for cooked white fish. You can also swap out the sweet potatoes for millet. At this point, you can also add in some cooked greens like kale, broccoli, or spinach. Be sure to note any sensitivities to new foods as you introduce them. High-quality hypoallergenic foods will also have fewer ingredients, making it easier to find potential allergens. When you choose a commercial dog food, be sure to feed your dog ONLY that food for a full week. When Stetson had skin allergies our vet recommended testing different commercial foods and it seemed that we had success switching him to Wellness Core Grain Free Dog Food. However, looking back I think it was an environmental switch that helped his allergies we moved to a new home. Try antihistamines — Antihistamines, like Benadryl, can alleviate allergic reactions in some situations. If you decide to try Benadryl, be aware that there are some mild side effects. Always follow the recommendation of your veterinarian. We covered the pros and cons of giving your dog Benadryl in this article. Always provide fresh drinking water. It must be used in conjunction with intradermal skin testing. Once the allergens have been confirmed, your veterinary dermatologist can desensitize your dog to the allergen by injecting an altered, weekend version into the skin. Shots are usually administered weekly over the course of several months. Cyclosporine — This medication can be used successfully for seasonal allergies or other types of atopy. Steroids — Steroids will help relieve extreme itching and inflammation, but they do have short and long-term side effects. They should be used sparingly and reserved for very serious conditions. Oclacitinib — This is a relatively new treatment that shows promise for treating allergic reactions to fleas, food, and environmental allergies. Cytokines help cells communicate with each other and promote itching and inflammation in dogs who have allergies. Read more about Oclacitinib on Pet MD. Vitamin E — If your dog has small problem spots, you can open up a vitamin E capsule and massage it into the skin. This will moisturize, alleviate some of the itching, and help prevent infection. Aloe Vera — This plant is commonly used to soothe sunburn in humans, but it is just as useful when treating skin conditions in dogs. If you buy commercial aloe vera, be sure that aloe vera is the first ingredient, and stay away from harsh chemicals. Calendula Tea Compresses — Calendula flowers have been used to treat skin conditions for centuries. Steep the dried flowers in hot water to make a strong tea. Apply the cooled tea directly to problem areas using a washcloth. You can also by calendula salves and sprays commercially. Epsom Salt Soak — This is helpful for paws that are red and raw. Fill a tub with warm water and a few tablespoons of Epsom salt. Have your dog stand in the water for soothing relief. Final Thoughts on Dealing with Dog Skin Allergies Diagnosing and treating dog skin allergies is a complex and difficult task, but with patience and perseverance, it will be a life changer for your dog. Your dog will thank you. Do you have an itchy scratchy dog? Have you done anything that helps? Tells us about your dog in the comment section below. Disclaimer All content on this site is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative to seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Please visit Prevent the Spread of Dog Flu to learn about how to protect your pets and to get the latest information about dog flu outbreaks. These dogs are so popular for some great reasons: Bouncy, cheerful, loyal, and enthusiastic Good with kids and other pets Above-average intelligence and trainability when positive reinforcement training methods are used Loves to play games, especially fetch People-oriented and eager to please Even temper and gentle disposition However, no dog is perfect! Labs originated in Newfoundland in the s and were bred from St. They were valued by fisherman for their trainability, trustworthiness, and work ethic. Fulfilling their retriever name, they would dive into icy cold waters to help pull in fishing nets and occasionally catch stray fish that had escaped. Today the Labrador comes in two varieties: the American tall and lanky or English short and stocky. Both American and English ancestries present all three color versions—black, blonde, and brown. When given plenty of vigorous exercise and attention, these sweethearts are gentle and well-behaved in the home. All you need is a ball to throw and your Lab will love you for life! The Labrador Retriever is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. Your Labrador Retriever's Health We know that because you care so much about your dog , you want to take good care of her. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Labrador. By knowing about health concerns specific to Labrador Retrievers, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in Labrador Retrievers to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Labrador Retrievers. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Lab looking and feeling her best. Unfortunately, your Lab is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. In fact, your Lab's life span may even be cut short by one to three years! Infections Labrador Retrievers are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination , which we will recommend based on her age, the diseases we see in our area, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in Labrador Retrievers. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Parasites All kinds of worms and bugs can invade your Lab's body, inside and out. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms , and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Labrador is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. Genetic Predispositions for Labrador Retrievers Bloat Gastric dilatation volvulus, also known as GDV or bloat, usually occurs in dogs with deep, narrow chests. This means your Labrador is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off the blood supply to the stomach and sometimes to the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as half an hour. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes up , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Some of the blood supply that should go to the liver goes around it instead, depriving the liver of the blood flow it needs to grow and function properly. If your friend has PSS, his liver cannot remove toxins from his bloodstream effectively. Surgery may be needed, but in some cases, we can treat with a special diet and medication. Your Labrador Retriever is prone to a chronic liver disease called hepatitis that may develop around middle age. Hepatitis is usually diagnosed through blood testing or liver biopsy, and can be treated with medication and special diets. Signs of liver disease do not usually occur until most of the liver is already damaged or destroyed, so early detection and intervention through routine blood screening is essential for early treatment. Bleeding Disorders Your Labrador Retriever is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This is an important test as we may not otherwise know whether your pet has hemophilia until severe bleeding occurs during surgery or after a serious injury. If the immune system destroys red blood cells, your dog quickly becomes anemic, weak, and lethargic. His gums will look whitish or yellow instead of a normal bright pink color. Sometimes an emergency transfusion of red blood cells or platelets is needed. Bone and Joint Problems A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in Labrador Retrievers. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. With diligent observation at home and knowledge about the diseases that may affect your friend's bones, joints, or muscles, you will be able to take great care of him throughout his life. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. Stiffness in your Labrador's elbows or hips may become a problem for him, especially as he matures. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is also sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. And keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! The cranial cruciate ligament is one of four tough bands of tissue that hold each knee together. A torn cranial cruciate ligament is a common injury in active dogs, including your Lab. Usually, surgical correction can stabilize the knee and help prevent crippling arthritis. Physical therapy and multimodal pain management are necessary for the best outcomes. Keeping him at the right weight, feeding a high-quality diet, and avoiding too much twisting of the knees like when playing Frisbee are key in avoiding these painful injuries. When Labrador puppies are allowed to grow too quickly, the cartilage in their joints may not attach to the bones properly. This problem is known as osteochondritis dissecans, or OCD. If this occurs, surgery may be required to fix the problem. Our recommended growth rate for Labrador Retriever puppies is no more than four pounds per week. Feed a large-breed puppy diet rather than an adult or regular puppy diet. Neurological Disease A genetically linked neurological condition, known as wobbler disease or wobbler syndrome, causes a wobbly, drunken gait in affected pets. Wobbler disease is the result of a narrowing of the vertebrae in the neck that pinches the spinal cord and associated nerves. When pinched, the nerves do not send signals to the brain as they should causing the pet to be unable to feel his feet. The first signs you will often notice with wobbler disease are unstable hind legs, stumbling, and sometimes falling. Treatment options include medications, neck braces, rehabilitation exercise programs, and surgery. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Any breed can be affected, but Labs have an above average incidence. Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars in their bodies and require daily insulin injections. Diabetes is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Well-regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. Allergies In humans, allergies to pollen, mold, or dust make people sneeze. In dogs, rather than sneezing, allergies make their skin itchy. The feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most commonly affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs of allergies. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for these conditions. Bleeding Tumor Hemangiosarcoma is a type of bleeding tumor that affects Labrador Retrievers at greater than average incidence. These tumors commonly form in the spleen, but can form in other organs as well. Unbeknownst to a pet owner, the tumor breaks open and internal bleeding occurs. Some tumors can be volleyball-sized or larger before signs of sickness show. We often find clues that one of these tumors is present during senior wellness testing, so have his blood tested and an ultrasound performed at least yearly. Lymphoma Lymphoma or lymphosarcoma is a type of cancer that afflicts Labrador Retrievers more than other breeds. This disease makes the body form abnormal lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. Because white blood cells can be found throughout the body, this cancer can show up almost anywhere. Lymphoma is a very treatable form of cancer with an excellent success rate in dogs receiving chemotherapy. Luckily, lymphoma is one of the few types of cancer that can often be found with a blood test, so we may recommend a complete blood count twice yearly. Eye Problems Not many things have as dramatic an impact on your dog's quality of life as the proper functioning of his eyes. Unfortunately, Labrador Retrievers can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs of concern. Hyperadrenocorticism Cushing's Cushing's Disease is a malfunction of the adrenal glands that causes them to produce too much steroid hormone. This is a common problem in dogs, and your Lab is more likely than other dogs to be affected. The condition usually develops slowly, and the early signs are easily missed. Symptoms include drinking and urinating more than normal, increased appetite, and reduced activity level followed later by a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss. Treatment usually includes oral medications and requires close coordination with us to ensure correct dosing. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Reactive seizures are caused by the brain's reaction to a metabolic problem like low blood sugar, organ failure, or a toxin. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, and Labrador Retrievers are commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, episodes will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and efficacy. If your dog has a seizure, carefully prevent him from injuring himself, but don't try to control his mouth or tongue. It won't help him, and he may bite you accidentally! Note the length of the seizure, and call us at or call an emergency hospital. Heart Disease Some breeds like your Labrador can be born with a variety of heart defects. Defects can also cause problems with heart valve function or the electrical signals that control the heartbeat. Special testing will be recommended if we hear a heart murmur or if you notice any unusual symptoms such as tiring easily, coughing, a swollen belly, or fainting. Exercise Induced Collapse Exercise induced collapse, or EIC, is just what it sounds like — a young, apparently healthy Labrador collapses to the ground suddenly while exercising. After a few minutes, the weakness passes and he is able to get up again. Dogs affected with EIC cannot run or exert themselves for long periods of time, especially not in hot weather, so a day of hunting or strenuous hiking is not a good idea for these pets. Heat stroke can also occur in conjunction with EIC. Genetic testing can be done to diagnose this disease and to screen dogs before breeding. Muscle Disease Labrador Retrievers may develop a disease of the muscles called myopathy between three and seven months of age. Physical signs of myopathy include bunny hopping, loss of muscle tone in the limbs, a stiff gait, and carrying the head low. Typically, affected pets are treated through reduced stress and occasionally with medication as well. Most dogs with myopathy are stabilized by twelve months of age and are able to have a normal life span. While they are suitable as house companions, strenuous exercise is not recommended, so no hunting or working! Taking Care of Your Labrador Retriever at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your Lab live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. Brush her coat as needed, at least weekly. Labrador Retrievers generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. She's a smart dog with lots of energy, so keep her mind and body active, or she'll get bored. That's when the naughty stuff starts. Always walk your Lab on a leash as she has a tendency to run off after interesting smells and people. She has a passion for water, and swimming is a perfect form of exercise for this water retriever. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Labrador Retriever needs help. In case the scratching persists, you can return to old food as that was not the allergen causing the itch in the first place. Remember, the numbers of food allergies in dogs are extremely low! You should start with the lowest-effort solution and slowly work your way up to the highest-investment solution. The earlier part of this article will help you determine whether the itch is contact-based or due to an inhaled allergen. Simply holding your current stash while getting a different brand is a decent step in the right direction. For some ideas and greater insight into what to feed your dog, check out my comprehensive guide, Best Diet for Labradors: Nutrition, Types, and More! Remove Items your Lab has Recently Come in Contact With Whether your Labrador has a new pillow or the wallpaper near his bed has been recently changed, you need to subtract the things introduced just before he started itching from his environment. An easy way to do this is to note the rough date when your dog started scratching himself. Then note the date a week or two before that and start auditing your living space to observe which new things have been added. If this controls the itching, you may deduce a seasonal problem. Here are some steps you can take to minimize his environmental allergies: Keep Your Doors and Windows Shut at All Times — This will prevent excessive dust and pollen from entering your living space. Use an Air Purifier — By collecting tiny particles like dust, pollen, and mold spores, air purifiers help create a cleaner, healthier atmosphere. Groom Regularly to Get Rid of Pollen and Dust — Labradors have two coats and require a lot of grooming throughout the year. To prevent allergies, I use the FURminator de-shedding tool from Amazon, which works well because it penetrates the undercoat and safely removes loose hair and any nasty allergens! Shower and Change When You Return Home — The urge to hug your best friend as soon as you return from work or even a grocery trip is always quite strong. This includes bedposts, tables, and chairs. Use a Dehumidifier — Dehumidifiers remove moisture from your home. By drying the air, allergy triggers are minimized, and symptoms are alleviated. You can also prevent mold with the use of dehumidifiers. You can use my recommended products, depending on compatibility, alongside the protective measures. That way, you may not need to implement drastic changes if they help eliminate the problem. Remember to check with your vet first before using any of them. Allergy Itch Relief Dog Shampoo Whether your Labrador loves baths or is reluctant to get one, an itch-relief shampoo is his best friend. So expect to give your Labrador frequent baths with this shampoo. When you walk your dog, airborne allergens can often stick to his coat. This spray is excellent for itching caused in a specific spot. Due to fleas, dryness, or contact, simply spraying it on the irritated area will bring immediate relief to your dog. By moisturizing and getting rid of dryness and other irritants in the process, it prevents your Lab from scratching or biting and causing further damage to the itchy area. If your Labrador licks himself to relieve the itch, you may need to use shampoo instead. Allergy Supplements — Chews Speaking of products that are safe for oral consumption, I recommend allergy immunity supplements. Many supplements are available on the market, but their effectiveness varies drastically. Final Thoughts Your Labrador may be itching and scratching because of canine atopic dermatitis or an allergic reaction to airborne, food, or contact-based allergens. Either way, the best solution is to eliminate the cause by reducing his exposure to the allergen. You can also try washing him with anti-allergy shampoo and give him allergy immunity supplements. Related Posts You May Like:. How do you change dog scratching habits? The answer is to find the underlying reason why the dog keeps scratching and treat that. This article will take a look at some possibilities. Why is my dog scratching so much? A dog licking and scratching themselves raw is only a symptom. The trick to stop dog scratching is to pinpoint the driving force. The most common triggers for excessive scratching in dogs are parasites or allergies. A vet is best able to track down the problem. Seek a professional opinion sooner rather than later, before the dog damages their skin and creates complications. Itchy and Scratchy Symptoms Does your dog sleep on the bed? As an owner, take note of where the dog scratches. This gives the vet clues as to the nature of the problem. What Can You Look For? In fact, a dog scratching is not the only clue to itchiness. Some like to scoot their faces across the carpet or commando-crawl on their bellies across concrete as a means of quelling an itch. Then there are the lickers. Licking can also be a sign of itchiness. A tell-tale sign of a secretive licker is brown saliva-staining of the fur. The classic places to check include the paws, butt, and belly. This results in hair loss or skin infections, which require treatment. When to Seek Help Does this sound familiar? To ignore the problem means risking complications such as yeast infections causing greasy skin or bacterial invaders creating weeping sores. Indeed, any change in habits could mean the dog is uncomfortable. Something as simple as a dog scratching their face could be a clue to any number of issues, from a grass awn stuck in the ear canal to sore teeth. A dog scratching and losing hair or making their skin red definitely needs to be checked by a vet. Get your canine companion seen at the earliest hint of discomfort, and dodge unnecessary distress. What Causes Dog Scratching? Just like mosquito or flea bites irritate human skin, the same can happen to dogs. Indeed, some dogs even have an allergy to flea bites, which makes them super-itchy. Fleas are public enemy number one when it comes to dog scratching. But when going on a flea hunt, be aware that fleas hop on to feed, but actually live off-dog in soft furnishings or the yard. A different species to human head lice, but super-itchy regardless Sarcoptic Mange Mites: These highly infectious scavenger mites are common on wildlife Parasites play such a leading role in a dog licking and scratching that the vet will eradicate bugs first, before doing other tests. Allergies and the Urge to Scratch Do you suffer the misery of hay fever? The runny nose and streaming eyes are due to an allergy to pollen. You guessed it! Allergies make dogs itchy. Unfortunately, dogs can be allergic to anything from pollens to grass sap, from perfume to air freshener, from dust mites to mold spores. Unfortunately, scratching and licking damages the skin. This can allow secondary invaders in, such as yeasts and bacteria. Why is My Dog Scratching so Much? Reaching a Diagnosis First off, go on a flea hunt. Look for those tell-tale flecks of dark dust in the coat. Capture some on a piece of damp cotton wool. In this scenario, the first step is to treat the dog against fleas. If the dog scratching has not improved a month later, the vet may suggest further investigation. Typical actions include: Running a blood test to detect sarcoptes mites Bathing the dog with medicated shampoo to strength skin health A course of antibiotics if infection is present Still itchy? The dog is put on a hypoallergenic diet for eight weeks, in case they have a food allergy Oh dear, still itchy! Blood or skin tests for allergies A skin biopsy How to Stop a Dog from Scratching: Treatment You can do a surprising amount at home to make an itchy dog more comfortable. The vet will attempt to identify and treat the cause of the itch. This includes using antibiotics, medicated shampoos, and anti-inflammatory drugs. Options for Treatment If an allergy is diagnosed, there are options for treatment. These include: Immunotherapy vaccines: A bespoke vaccine is developed. The idea is that giving small, but increasing amounts of allergen. This allows the immune system to get used to the allergen and turn off the unwanted exaggerated response. Biological therapies: The latest kid-on-the-block is Cytopoint. It takes out the pathway that triggers the itch, stopping it from developing. Sadly, both of the above are expensive. However, there are a wide range of anti-inflammatory drugs which are also highly beneficial: Steroids: Inexpensive and extremely effective. Cyclosporine Atopica : Originally developed to prevent organ rejection in transplant medicine, these help switch off the unwanted immune response. Effective and relatively side-effect-free, but expensive! Oclacitinib Apoquel : A relatively new anti-itch medication, this works really well for some dogs and is almost side-effect-free. Sadly, this also is expensive. A dog scratching because of parasites can be cured. Getting rid of the bugs stops the itch. This means taking lots of small steps. Making several minor changes adds up to a big increase in comfort. Strategies to reduce the itch include: Limiting exposure to allergens Washing allergens off the skin Controlling secondary infections, such as yeasts or bacteria Use of therapies such as immunotherapy vaccines Drugs to reduce the itch Why is My Dog Scratching so Much? The occasional lazy scratch of the ear is quite normal. Excessive scratching in dogs is not. Common things like fleas are an obvious cause of itchiness. If in doubt see the vet early, to avoid unnecessary complications such as hair loss or infections. Do Fleas Die In Winter? References and Resources Diaz, S. The five most common types of allergies are food allergies, flea allergies, contact allergies, inhalant allergies, and bacterial allergies. Labrador Food Allergies Food allergies in Labrador Retrievers are caused by allergic reactions to common ingredients in dog food such as beef, corn, soy, fish, wheat, chicken, and chicken eggs. Common symptoms include: itchy skin often around the muzzle or face hair loss frequent bowel movements and skin infections. Antihistamines and occasionally antibiotics can be used to help dogs with extreme food allergies. But if your Lab has a food allergy, the symptoms will return when the treatment is stopped. Elimination diets with limited ingredients work well for most dogs with food allergies. Most common dog food brands on the market offer hypoallergenic formulas. These recipes are free of some of the most common allergens we talked about earlier: corn, soy, beef, chicken, chicken eggs, fish, and wheat. You can also consider feeding a raw diet consisting of unprocessed meats and veggies. FAD occurs when a flea bites an animal, injecting its saliva into the skin. Your dog will most likely be susceptible to FAD during the summer months. Because fleas thrive best in warm temperatures with humidity. Early warning signs of FAD include itchy, irritated skin. This in turn causes red, inflamed patches of skin called hot spots. Flea bites occur most often on the back and at the base of the tail. In severe cases, you might notice hair loss, oozing, or dark, crusty skin. The easiest way to prevent flea allergies in Labrador Retrievers is to groom your dog regularly , and apply a flea preventative such as Frontline during flea season. If your Lab does develop an allergic reaction to a flea bite, there are several methods of killing fleas instantly. Make sure to remove all traces of fleas both from him and from your home. Sometimes your Lab can develop a yeast infection as a result of a flea bite. In which case you might notice an unpleasant odor. Vets will often prescribe antibiotics and a short course of prednisone to relieve his itchy skin. Taking preventative measures, however, and regularly observing your dog for early warning signs during flea season, can help to mitigate the problem. Canine Contact Allergies Contact allergies occur when your Lab develops an allergic reaction to noxious or irritating substances in the environment. These can include dyes, carpet deodorizers, or antibiotics applied to the skin. Rubber, wool, certain metals like nickel , poison ivy sap, and salt on the road can also cause allergic reactions. The allergic reaction usually develops on areas of the skin with little or no hair. Such as the backs of the paws, the muzzle, and the lower abdomen. These areas of the skin are most likely to come into direct contact with the irritant. In order to treat a contact allergy, your vet needs to use patch or exclusion tests to determine what allergen your Lab is reacting to. Patch tests involve a small amount of the allergen being rubbed on the skin. Inhalant Allergies in Labradors Inhalant allergies also called atopic allergies or atopy are the second most common allergy in Labs after FAD. They are caused by an allergic reaction to airborne or inhaled allergens like mold, dust, or pollen. Simply put, think of atopy as the canine equivalent of hay fever in people. Like FAD, inhalant allergies usually affect dogs during the spring and summer months. Atopic Labradors will develop very itchy skin and will usually bite and scratch themselves, often on the legs, face, ears, groin, and armpit areas. Red, irritated skin and hair loss are the most common warning signs as well as yeast infections in the skin and ears. Your vet will likely perform one of two allergy tests on your dog to determine what is causing the allergic reaction. An intra-dermal or skin allergy test involves injecting a small amount of an allergen into his skin and watching for a reaction. The second test, the IgE allergy test, involves taking a blood sample from your Lab to test for IgE antibodies against specific airborne allergens. If a high number of IgE antibodies exist, this is usually a sign of an inhalant allergy. There are several ways to treat inhalant allergies. Allergy shots involve a serum containing the allergen to which your dog reacts. Over time, the injections can desensitize them to the allergen, reducing the symptoms. Your vet might also prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs such as corticosteroids or antihistamines to relieve symptoms like itching and skin irritation. Since allergies often cause skin irritation and hair loss, your Lab can often develop lesions or inflamed pustules. For these, your vet will likely proscribe topical medications like ointments and sprays as well as a round of antibiotics. The vet will look for evidence that the infection is symptomatic of a more serious medical condition. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own.

Should a French Bulldog Mix take after their Frenchie parent, they will be a small companion breed that bonds closely with their families. They tend to have an energetic, playful personality and love nothing more than being with their favorite humans. French Bulldogs tend to be friendly, playful, and affectionate dogs that get along with just about everyone. They tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets. They will even warm up quickly to strangers as long as they have been properly socialized. If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you should be able to expect the same from a French Bulldog Mix. You can also meet the mother in person to see what her temperament is like and the behavior she is modeling for the puppies. The breeder should have started some training and socialization, but it is up to you to continue to train and socialize a puppy once you get them home. Frenchies are highly adaptable dogs. They do well in apartments as well as larger homes. However, as a brachycephalic breed, they are extra sensitive to heat and also sensitive to the cold. They also do not like being left alone for long periods of time. If the other parent breed is similar, then you can expect a Frenchie Mix to also be a highly adaptable dog. The other parent will introduce their own traits and some potential quirks, so you do want to ask the breeder about them. They could inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, or they could inherit some or all of them. They can also be prone to allergies, have sensitive skin, and also a sensitive stomach. Good breeding practices will make a huge difference. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. Although French Bulldogs can sometimes be stubborn, they are eager to please and tend to be easy to train. As long as training is consistent and focused on positive praise and reward, they can be a good fit for owners of all experience levels. If the other parent breed is also easy to train, then you can expect a French Bulldog Mix to be highly trainable as well. Regardless of owner experience, there are many benefits of puppy training classes. A mixed-breed dog can inherit a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is a mix of both. You will also need to clean their facial wrinkles. Weekly ear checks with cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, a Frenchie Mix is more prone to developing dental diseases later in life. This makes good, consistent dental care for dogs even more important for them. Daily brushing with a dog-friendly toothpaste or using an enzyme toothpaste paired with cleanings at the vet when needed is ideal. Frenchies are known couch potato dogs that are happy to lay back, relax, and cuddle with you. Daily walks plus some playtime are usually enough for this affectionate little dog. Even though they like to relax, they also like to play and will be energetic when they do. They can also be athletic and compete in dog sports. As a brachycephalic breed, you do need to be careful of overexertion and overheating. But, there are plenty of ways to safely exercise flat-faced dogs to make sure your French Bulldog Mix gets enough exercise. If the other parent breed is also a low-energy breed, then you can expect something similar from a Frenchie Mix. If the other parent breed requires more activity, then you will need to be prepared for the potential of a higher energy dog. Fully-grown Frenchies usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother, so make sure you ask the breeder about them. This can give you some idea of what size to expect in a fully-grown French Bulldog Mix. French Bulldogs generally live for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar average life span in a French Bulldog Mix. Featured French Bulldog Mix Article. Showing 1 - 27 of 27 resultsPage 1 - 27 results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. Pups have been vet checked at 2 and 4 weeks, and.Glamorous frenchies currently have.Dewormed, first vaccinations and clear health check. These babies are desensitized to.We had an accidental litter lf Frugs Pug x French Bulldog , they are incredibly adorable and will be vet checked and receive 1st vaccines and dewormer before leaving our care. Dad is Frenchie and Boston and mom is Shitzu mix. Healthy pups. Pick up Cedarbrae SW Calgary. Both boys. They have been raised in a family environment with kids as well as cats. They have started.One of their other names, the Shichon Teddy Bear refers to their.Puppies are 8 weeks old. They have had their first vaccinations, microchip, They will have their first vaccinations and health check. Dad is purebred French bulldog and mom is purebred pug. Parents are super smart, kind and are.They love hanging out with people, they do great with other dogs, and are full of energy. We have.There are 3 girls and 2 boys available. Puppies will be ready to go home on August 11th. They will come fully vet checked.Should mature no more than 20 lbs. Vet checked, first shots and dewormed. Please call or .Parents are family dogs with prefect demeanors and are great with children and chickens : even cats Pick up is an option in.We are pleased to introduce Baby Pepper! This cute bundle of energy is excited to start the search for her new family. Mother Ruby and Father Leo are family pets. Leo is a.For more pictures of the colors just message. They are all good to go. Willing to negotiate price. They come with vet papers.

Dog Cadge Silver lab puppies are for sale in California low price There are various locations and pet adoption points but we research for the best options. The following selection is based on different factors including the quality of breeders, dealing with the clients, and selling price. So, here we go with the further detail of Silver lab puppies for sale in California in your price range. Silveroselabs Highly Customer Satisfaction Silveroselabs can help you find a great pooch. You can find different colors of different puppies. They have silver lab puppies around the year in California. Silver, Charcoal Labs, and Champagne Labs are waiting for your visit. You can contact them at or send an email infosilveroselabs gmail. Features Puppies are sold with AKC Registration An initial deposit is mandatory for the final reservation of a dog Full payment be made at the time of pup is 8 weeks old Balance can be transferred to a different litter for the accommodation of color or gender. Cash is accepted only at Pickup time All Labrador pupps are Microchipped They care for puppy dewclaws removal and do so at appx. They focus on Quality, Temperaments, and Health guarantees for their cliental satisfaction. They are experts in their field and love their pets a lot. Features Production of healthy and quality labs Produce puppies for the show, field, or home. Breeding a good dog is important that its unique color. Also, they have civilized silver Labrador retrievers that are easily adjustable in the family. Also, there are yellow, chocolate, black, and silver puppies too. Their best strive to produce healthy and fit puppies have come true. Trained initially towards socialization and appropriate manners Lab training Full-service breeding Wea Creek Labradors Hunting Partner Wea Creek Labradors is another main name of the game. They are also in the Silver Lab puppies for sale in California and provide great contributions. They are small family-run breeding. Also, they are specialized in the breeding of Quality Hunting Labrador Retriever puppies. They own a larger farm where the animals play and grow. We have Lab puppies for sale in California that are available throughout the year in different colors, including Silver Labradors , Charcoal Labs and Champagne Labs! Let us know what you are looking for and we will find the right puppy for you! About our Wonderful Labs.The Labrador Retriever loves to retrieve. Show a Lab to water and it will retrieve all day: balls, sticks, small boats and even children who might happen to go for a swim. Descended from dogs found in Newfoundland by explorers, fishermen and settlers, the Labrador Retriever evolved by natural selection. An excellent retriever of fish and game, these dogs have been known by several names, among them the Black Water Dog, the Lesser Newfoundland and the St. John's Dog. In the early s, the breed was introduced to Britain, where it was eventually crossed with other sporting breeds. The final product was the strong, sturdy, happy Labrador Retriever, which is America's most popular dog, thanks to its outgoing, eager-to-please and loving temperament. Males usually measure .Weight for males ranges from 65 to 80 pounds, with females averaging about 10 pounds less. The coat is short, dense and hard in colors of black, yellow, silver, charcoal, chocolate and many shades in the middle such as the white and champagne Lab. The AKC only allows black, chocolate and yellow to place in the show ring but that doesn't stop us from loving the other colors! A simple good brushing will remove dead hair and keep the coat shiny. A distinctive feature of the breed is the medium-long tail. Thick and round at the root and gradually tapering to the tip, it is often described as an otter tail. This tail can clear a coffee table in seconds! The Labrador is easy to train and excels as a field dog as well as obedience trials. Labs enjoy all outdoor exercise but are especially fond of swimming. They say this medium-sized, high-energy dog is best suited to a suburban or country home with a yard and a family that can provide it with the activity it loves--but that said, many city-dwelling Lab owners tell us it is the most wonderful "city" dog they have ever had! City, country or anywhere in between, the Lab is simply the best! Labrador Retriever Puppies for Sale in California Many people would agree that a house is not truly a home until you have a dog. With our Labrador retriever puppies for sale , Silver and Charcoal Kennels can make that a reality for you. We are a professional Labrador retriever breeder that produces top-quality puppies. We are based in Mississippi, but we deliver our puppies nationally, including to California. Our mission is to provide you and your family with the Labrador puppy of your dreams. Each of our Lab puppies comes from a Sire that has multiple Field Trial Championships and a Senior Title, and bloodlines that go back two decades. Puppies also come with AKC registration, genetic testing, all vaccinations, and the most desirable breed traits. Our silver, charcoal, and champagne Labrador puppies grow to be large in size and have great temperaments. Their loving natures make them incredible family companions, while their gentle and intelligent dispositions make them fit to become hunting, rescue, and service dogs. Many of our pups go on to become service dogs for veterans, as we donate one of our Lab puppies to a veteran once a year. After reserving your puppy with a deposit , you can choose to pick them up from our kennel or we can drive them to you in California. Either way, you will be able to observe and interact with your pup before taking custody and paying the full fee. Contact us with any questions or to reserve your pup today! Questions about our puppies?